Summary

Medal for a Trial Reverse of the Olympic Participants Medal. it was designed by artist Andor Mészáros, minted by K.G.Luke and issued by the Melbourne Olympic Committee in 1956.

This is a lead trial struck to test the die for the Melbourne Olympic Participants medals. It depicts the Arms of the City of Melbourne surmounted by the Olympic rings and a kangaroo.

The actual medal struck in bronze was issued to all associated with Games. It was commissioned by the Melbourne Olympic Committee, which was responsible for organising the 1956 Melbourne Olympic Games, including construction of stadiums, athletes' accommodation, press coverage and medal production.

Physical Description

This is a lead trial struck to test the die for the Melbourne Olympic Participants medals. It depicts the Arms of the City of Melbourne surmounted by the Olympic rings and a kangaroo; around, OLYMPIC GAMES MELBOURNE / 19 56

Obverse Description

Arms of the City of Melbourne surmounted by the Olympic rings and a kangaroo; around, OLYMPIC GAMES MELBOURNE / 19 56

Reverse Description

Plain

Edge Description

Plain

Significance

Australia did not have a developed tradition in medallic art in the inter-war and early post-war period, and Andor Meszaros' sculptures were generally not well-received.1955 was a turning point in his career, however, when he was selected to prepare a medal for the 1956 Olympic Games. His fame spread, and European post-war immigrants brought more appreciation for his work in Australia.

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