Australian Historical Medals

Lot 588    SESSION 3 (2.30PM TUESDAY 17TH APRIL)    Australian Historical Medals

Estimate $1,500
Bid at live.noble.com.au
SOLD $900

ACCLIMATIZATION SOCIETY OF VICTORIA, in silver (57mm) by J.S.& A.B.Wyon, sc 1868 T.Landseer A.R.A. Adj in exergue (C.1868/3), inscribed around edge 'Awarded to Edward Wilson Esq. Melbourne 1868'; together with Smithfield Club, award medal in silver (49mm), engraved around edge 'As Breeder Best Pen of Pigs in Class LXIV 1873 E.Wilson Hayes Place Farm Beckenham Kent'. Good very fine. (2)

Edward Wilson (1813-1878), journalist and philanthropist, born in London on 3 November 1813, son of a linen merchant. A failed business venture dissipated his inheritance and savings and in August 1841 he sailed for Sydney to try sheep farming. He soon moved to Melbourne and became interested in politics, agriculture and newspapers. In 1848 he bought the 'Argus' for £300. He aired his political views through his paper and provided influential opposition to the La Trobe government. Wilson retired in 1855 and developed an interest in the introduction of European birds, fish and animals. In February 1861 he formed the Acclimatization Society as an offshoot of the Victorian Zoological Society and similar societies in the other colonies and throughout Victoria were founded through his influence and involvement. He continued to be active in public affairs until his death on 10 January 1878.

Ex Noble Numismatics Sale 61 (lot 4033).