*British, 1902, King Edward VII & Queen Alexandra Coronation Commemorative Medal, “Accession 1901 – Crowned 1902”, White Metal Souvenir Issue*
A British commemorative medal issued to mark the coronation of King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra in 1902. The medal features the conjoined crowned busts of the King and Queen facing left, surrounded by the inscription “KING EDWARD VII & QUEEN ALEXANDRA.” Edward is depicted wearing the Imperial State Crown, with Queen Alexandra behind him wearing a smaller crown and necklace.
The reverse displays a symbolic allegorical scene typical of Edwardian coronation commemoratives. Britannia is shown receiving homage from figures representing the British Empire, surrounded by decorative elements including shields, musical instruments and heraldic motifs. Beneath the scene appears the inscription “ACCESSION 1901 – CROWNED 1902,” referencing Edward VII’s accession to the throne following the death of Queen Victoria in January 1901 and his eventual coronation the following year.
The medal is struck in white metal, a common inexpensive alloy used for souvenir medals and civic commemoratives produced in large numbers for public celebrations across Britain. Many examples were distributed during coronation festivities or presented to schoolchildren as mementos of the event.
Approx. Measurements – Diameter: 35 mm.
History Note:
King Edward VII ascended to the British throne on 22 January 1901 following the death of his mother, Queen Victoria, bringing an end to the long Victorian era. His coronation was initially scheduled for 26 June 1902, but was dramatically postponed when the King fell seriously ill with appendicitis shortly before the ceremony. Emergency surgery was carried out, and after his recovery the coronation was finally held at Westminster Abbey on 9 August 1902.
The event was celebrated across the British Empire with public festivities, parades and commemorative souvenirs. Numerous medals and medallions were produced by private manufacturers in materials ranging from bronze and aluminium to inexpensive white metal. These pieces served as patriotic keepsakes of the new Edwardian era and remain popular with collectors of royal memorabilia today.
*Condition*
Heavily worn example with corrosion and surface oxidation typical of white metal alloys. The medal shows a large chip to the upper rim and softened detail across both sides from age and wear. Despite this, the main design and inscriptions remain visible. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQ#3079E_5344237391
