Florence Nightingale Medallion,John Pinches circa 1856

A white base metal medallion by John Pinches of London,celebrating Florence Nightingale following the Crimean War.
The obverse of this medal depicts a half-length figure of Florence reading a book, within a beaded oval frame. On either side are sprays of roses, thistles and shamrocks. The reverse carries an oval badge flanked by palm sprays and bearing the words: 'BLESSED ARE THE MERCIFUL'. Above it are three mullets and at the centre is a cross in splendour surmounted by a crown and the letters VR. Below is a scroll inscribed: CRIMEA, and the around the edge of the medal the inscription: 'AS A MARK OF ESTEEM AND GRATITUDE FOR HER DEVOTION TO THE QUEEN'S BRAVE SOLDIERS'.
This emblem is copied from the "Nightingale Jewel" the award personally given to Florence Nightingale by Queen Victoria in 1855.
Surface wear as pictured,some knocks to lower rim.Height 42mm

Code: 50866