August 2020 Auction Ends Thursday, August 27th, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/27/2020
Society of the Cincinnati Eagle medal, designed by Arthus Bertrand of Paris, circa 1930s, based on his design introduced in 1926. The Society of the Cincinnati was formed after the Revolutionary War to keep alive its ideals of service to country after soldiers returned home, modeling Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus who returned to his farm after serving his country in war. Original members included George Washington, Marquis de Lafayette, Nathanael Greene, and other Revolutionary War patriots, with official membership being hereditary since then, apart from honorary memberships such as those given to U.S. Presidents.
Attractive silver gilt and multi-colored enamel medal shows a left-facing eagle, with wings outstretched, a sprig of laurel held in his talons below, and a wreath of laurel encircling his head at top. At center is a depiction of three senators presenting a sword to Cincinnatus, surrounded by the words ''OMNIA RELINQUIT SERVARE REMPUBLICAN'' (He relinquished everything to serve the Republic). The reverse shows the eagle facing right, with a depiction of Cincinnatus standing with a plow, surrounded by the words ''SOCIETAS CINCINNATORUM INSTITUTAS AD 1783'' (Society of the Cincinnati, Instituted 1783). Design measures 2'' x 1.25'', not including connecting ring at top, which attaches to original pale blue and white grosgrain ribbon. Original Arthus Bertrand box is also included, measuring 2.625'' x 5''. Some rubbing to gilt, overall in very good condition.
Society of the Cincinnati Eagle Medal, Designed by Arthus Bertrand Circa 1930s -- Medal Is Intended to Keep Alive the Spirit of the Revolutionary War & Service to Country
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