| Product
Code |
: |
PUD NO_926-2_AR |
| Subject | : | Irwin's Viceroy Presentation Medal |
| Size | : | 50.5 mm |
| Metal | : | Silver |
| Year | : | 1926 |
| Description | : | obv. Lord Irwin's arms with motto : I LIKE MY CHOICE. Signed with Spencer's initials, APS, in monogram, rev. At top the breast badge of the Star of India order. Below : PRESENTED BY / THE LORD IRWIN / VICEROY OF INDIA / TO, flanked to left and right by palm trees. Below legend, a scroll for recipients name. At bottom a floral spray.
A.P. Spencer took up his duties as Artist/Engraver at the Calcutta Mint on 30 January 1926. This was one of the first medals from that mint to bear his signature.
Calcutta Mint records note that the bronze medal issued was lacquered. The first issue of this medal was on 14 December 1926. Irwin was the fourth Viceroy to use this design; Hardinge pioneered with his second type, followed by Chelmsford and Reading. Irwin was a great Viceroy in the mold of Canning, Mayo, Ripon and Minto. Distinguished looking, he was an excellent administrator but without involving himself in details like Curzon, and a great statesman, who, during his term from April 1926 through April 1931, guided India through the swelling surge for independence when Gandhi was at the height of his influence. |
