Society of Medalists Issue #88 – “The Alphabet” by Edward Ryneal Grove (1973)
Bronze Medal with Original Box – Medallic Art Company
A fine example of American medallic art from the prestigious Society of Medalists series. This is the 88th issue, released in October 1973, designed by noted sculptor Edward Ryneal Grove.
Design
The obverse features a striking star-like abstract composition incorporating letters from multiple world alphabets (including Arabic, Hebrew, Cyrillic, and others), with the words “THE ALPHABET” at the center.
The reverse presents a bold montage of the complete 26-letter Roman alphabet, signed ERG © 1973.
Struck in high relief by the renowned Medallic Art Company of New York, the medal measures approximately 73 mm (2.87 inches) in diameter and displays the classic golden bronze finish with tan patina typical of this issue.
This piece comes with its original box, adding to its desirability for collectors of the Society of Medalists series.
Details
- Issue: Society of Medalists #88
- Year: 1973
- Sculptor: Edward Ryneal Grove
- Manufacturer: Medallic Art Company (MaCo)
- Composition: Bronze
- Diameter: 73 mm
- Edge lettering includes the Society of Medalists issue information and Medallic Art Co. mark
- Includes original box
Grove considered this one of his finest works. The medal received critical acclaim when displayed at the 1975 Fédération Internationale de la Médaille d’Art congress in Kraków, Poland. It celebrates the alphabet as “the most fruitful of all achievements of the human intellect,” quoting type designer Frederic W. Goudy.
A handsome and intellectually engaging medal that appeals to collectors of Society of Medalists issues, 20th-century American sculpture, and typography-themed art medals.
Please review the photographs carefully for the exact condition of the medal and box. The item shown is the one you will receive.
