Blackpool Tower Medallion

Obverse of Blackpool Tower Medallion

Reverse of Blackpool Tower Medallion

Obverse
The obverse (head side) shows a completed Blackpool Tower with all its buildings.
The inscriptions read:
BLACKPOOL TOWER
HEIGHT 450 FEET
MAXWELL & TUKE
ARCHITECTS

Reverse
The reverse shows a coat of arms we have never seen before for Blackpool, with a pigeon flying left above a quartered shield, in respective quarters there are a pier, a bathing hut, a three masted sailing ship, and what looks like a rowing boat.
A ribbon beneath bears the usual Blackpool motto PROGRESS The inscriptions in seven lines read:
FOUNDATION STONE LAID
SEPT. 25TH 1891
BY
SIR MATTHEW WHITE RIDLEY
BART. M.P.
JOHN BICKERSTAFFE
MAYOR

Gold & Silver Versions?
We have also seen one of these medallions which appears to be gold, probably nine carat. It is unhallmarked but with obvious evidence of acid testing by a jeweller, including some rather heavy handed filing and scarping. It was boxed and accompanied by a hand written note stating that it was given to the directors of the Blackpool Tower Company, and that a silver version was given to Blackpool Corporation. Its owner informed us that only one each was issued in these two metals. Any further information on this would be appreciated.

Local Medallions
This is only one of many local medallions issued as commemoratives, but largely for advertising purposes in pre T.V. days.
We have shown it on our website for general and local historical interest.

If you want to find the value of a coin you own, please take a look at our page I've Found An Old Coin, What's It Worth?