King Edward VII commemorative medallion
Date1902-1932
Object number00056363
NameMedal
MediumMetal
DimensionsOverall: 32 × 32 × 2 mm
ClassificationsCoins and medals
Credit LineAustralian National Maritime Museum Collection Gift from Glenn Alfred Thorpe
DescriptionMedallion commemorating the Coronation of Edward VII owned by Alfred Thorpe. The medallion has the heads of King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra on the obverse with the words 'KING EDWARD VII QUEEN ALEXANDRA'. The reverse depicts Britannia, emblematic of Great Britain, holding a crown aloft with a trident and shield behind. Figures representing the children of the empire surround her and Westminster Abbey is visible in the background, with the wording ‘GOD SAVE THE KING / CROWNED JUNE 26th/ 1902’
Part of a collection of objects assembled by Alfred Thorpe (c. 1852 – 1931) relating to his merchant and naval service career and association with Antarctic exploration while serving as pilot and harbour master at Lyttelton Harbour, New Zealand. The collection is illustrative of the important role Lyttelton paid in Antarctic exploration in the early 20th century, as both the final major port vessels of exploration and their relief ships visited on their journey south, and also the first they put in at on their return.SignificanceThis collection of objects highlights the importance of the port of Lyttleton in early 20th century Antarctic exploration and the role of pilots and harbour masters in supporting the crews and vessels sailing south. The collection not only illustrates the professional relationship between port staff and ships’ crews, but also the high degree of mutual respect the association engendered. The close working association between mariners and key maritime roles, such as pilot and harbour master, is apparent in this collection.
