Owner Comments:
MEDAL APPEARANCE/CONDITION:
Uncirculated+
*Unique design and extremely rare. Untoned surfaces allow viewers to observe the medal in its original entirety. A striking design and sharp overall devices/legends. — Fields are “near” proof-like. If not for the amount of marks/abrasions which are accurate to its current grade, there would likely be a deeper mirrored finish. Nevertheless, the medal is still in phenomenal shape for being 127 years old as of 2023.*
MEDAL BACKGROUND:
Struck circa 1896 to commemorate the “The Festival of Mountain and Plain.” As noted on the medal, “The May” shoe and clothing company of Denver, Colorado issued the medals, likely as an advertisement. — This specific festival ran annually for ~5 years. Commemorative medals were issued at each; “all” are extraordinarily rare. I own several others from almost every year; however, they are currently pending certification.
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“The Festival of Mountain and Plain was an annual celebration of pioneer days in the Old West held in early October in Denver from 1895 to 1899, and in 1901 with a final attempt at revival in 1912. Organized by The Mountain and Plain Festival Association, the event featured a parade and rodeo. It continued until at least 1902. It was a regional celebration and drew pioneers from throughout the West, many of whom had participated in the events celebrated.” — Credited Source: Reynolds, Minnie J. (September 22, 1901). "AMONG The PIONEERS" (Magazine supplement). The New York Times. p. SM17.
RARITY: Unknown; Likely extremely rare (I have yet to encounter another example)
NGC Census not available.
MEDAL DESCRIPTION:
(Aluminum, 38mm, Round, Plain Edge)
OBVERSE: Festival of Mountain and Plain / (Image of Elk Head, Farm Crops, and Mountain with Cross) / Oct.6.7.8.1896.
REVERSE: Compliments / of / “The May” / Shoe & Clothing / Co. / Denver. / (Wreath Surrounding Reverse Lettering)
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND:
(“The May” Shoe & Clothing Company - Denver, Colorado):
“Denver, Colo. based department store founded as the May Shoe & Clothing Company in 1889. Merged in 1958 with Denver based department store, Daniels and Fisher Stores Company to form May-D & F. Company later merged with the Foley's Division in 1993.” — Credited Source: history.denverlibrary.org