Summary

Calcutta International Exhibition silver prize medal, awarded to Sir William J. Clarke for his Bolinda Vale wool, 1883-1884.

Clarke owned large grazing properties in Victoria. He was particularly interested in farming as a science, and supported scientific instructor R.W.E. M'Ivor, who lectured on agricultural chemistry. He also founded the Rupertswood Battery of Horse Artillery, Victoria. He was a generous philanthropist supporting universities, religious and sporting organisations such as Melbourne University, the Anglican Diocese of Melbourne, the Victorian Football Association and Melbourne Cricket Club.
In 1862, Clarke was appointed president of the commissioners of the Melbourne International Exhibition which opened on 1 October 1880.

Physical Description

A silver prize medal (51 mm diameter) featuring a crowned bust of Queen Victoria in Indian dress. The prize medals from this exhibition were issued without the name of the winner engraved on the reverse, unlike most cases this medal has been engraved.

Obverse Description

Bust of Queen Victoria in the style of Empress of India; around on broad rim. 'CALCUTTA INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION . 1883 - 84'.

Reverse Description

Within olive wreath, 'AWARDED TO / Sir William J. Clarke Bart / BOLINDA VALE / WOOL'.

Edge Description

Plain

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