Commemorative medallion: Lincoln Tunnel, Dedicated 1937. Issued Nov. 1937 by Port of New York Authority.
Entry/Object ID
2011.049.0301
Description
Commemorative medal: "Lincoln Tunnel, Dedicated 1937. Built and Owned by the Port of New York Authority." Issued November 1937 by Port of New York Authority for tunnel opening. Gold finish cast metal, high relief, 1-1/4" diameter x ca. 1/8" thick. See objects 2001.188.5001 for a 1987 reproduction, 3" diameter, in bronze issued for the 50th anniversary.
Officially called the "Lincoln Tunnel Dedication Medal" on the ticket to the dedication. This bronze version is an enlarged reproduction of the original medal (gold finish and smaller: see objects 2012.007.0084 for that medal) that was distributed only to holders of tickets to the ceremonies or luncheon on December 21, 1937. (A portion of the ticket was supposed to be redeemed to receive the medal.) Ceremonies were held in New York and in Weehawken, New Jersey.
Front has the text above with above the text of a view in low relief of the western tunnel portal in Weehawken looking east with Manhattan in the background. (This depiction is an artist's rendition and is not true to the orientation of the entry plaza to the view of the city: the entrance actually faces north - northeast and New York City is not seen above the tunnels.)
Reverse has a right profile portrait of Abraham Lincoln in high relief with quote surrounding it: "For Furthur Unification of the People." Signed by the artist, "Kilenyi," to the bottom left of the bust. [Julio Kilenyi was a noted artist who created a large number of medals, coins and plaques.]
Plain edge.
Acquisition
Accession
2011.049
Source or Donor
Lukacs, Claire
Acquisition Method
Gift
Credit Line
Museum Collections. Gift of a friend of the Museum.
