Summary

Gold-plated commemorative medal of the Australian Bicentenary. Issued by the Australian Bicentennial Authority. Designed by Michael Meszaros and minted by the Royal Australian Mint, Canberra, 1988.

This gold-plated medal was presented to official guests at the opening of the National Science and Technology Centre. The obverse, by the Melbourne artist Michael Meszaros, depicts people coming from all directions to gather around the Australian flag. The reverse features the Bicentennial logo by Michael Tracey. It is contained in a clear plastic holder which fits into a green case with the bicentennial logo on its top and the legend 'National / Science and Technology / Centre / 23 November 1988 / THE OFFICIAL / BICENTENNIAL / COMMEMORATIVE / MEDALLION'. This medal was presented to Boyce Pizzey, who represented Scienceworks at the opening.

Obverse Description

Near the centre a space from which a flagpole with the Australian flag rises, gathered around is a large crowd with more people coming from all directions; above, CELEBRATION OF A NATION; on the right rim in tiny letters the artist's name, M.MESZAROS

Reverse Description

AUSTRALIAN BICENTENARY 1788 - 1988 Bicentennial logo in centre

Edge Description

Plain

Significance

For over half a century, sculptors Andor (1900-1973) and Michael (1945- ) Meszaros have created medals that reflect the high points of life in Australia. From major awards and portraits of eminent Australians to artwork celebrating popular culture and the natural world, these objects illuminate our culture and history. Grounded in a centuries-old European art tradition, the medals create connections across disciplines and link such diverse subjects as scientific advances, religious themes, sport, the performing arts and motherhood. Through their public and private commissions and their personal artworks, the Meszaros sculptors have defined the modern Australian medal.

More Information