Society of Medalists Issue #86 – “Chilkat Tlingit Indians” by John Edward Svenson (1972)
Bronze Medal with Original Box – Medallic Art Company
A richly detailed celebration of Northwest Coast Native American culture from the prestigious Society of Medalists series. This is the 86th issue, released in October 1972, designed by sculptor John Edward Svenson.
Design
The obverse presents a powerful portrait of a Chilkat chieftain wearing an elaborate ceremonial headdress made of carved wood, pelts, feathers, and walrus whiskers. The vertical legend at right reads “CHILKAT”, with the artist’s signature and date below the collar: Svenson 72 ©.
The reverse features traditional Tlingit art forms, including a house post depicting the String Boy legend, a Cannibal mask, a Bear Dance mask, and a Diving Whale blanket in the background. The inscriptions read “TLINGIT INDIANS” above and “ALASKA” below.
Struck in high relief by the Medallic Art Company of New York, the medal measures approximately 73 mm in diameter and displays a warm golden bronze finish with tan patina. This example comes with its original box.
Details
- Issue: Society of Medalists #86
- Year: 1972
- Sculptor: John Edward Svenson
- Manufacturer: Medallic Art Company (MaCo)
- Composition: Bronze
- Diameter: approx. 73 mm
- Includes original box
Svenson, a trustee of Alaska Indian Arts in Port Chilkoot, Alaska, was deeply familiar with the art and culture of the Northwest Coast peoples. This medal is one of only a few Society of Medalists issues devoted to Native American themes and stands as a respectful and finely executed tribute to Chilkat and Tlingit heritage.
Please examine the photographs carefully for the exact condition of the medal and box. The item pictured is the exact one you will receive.
