Commems Collection Classic: Quick Bits 143 - 1915 Pan-Pac Quintuple Eagles - In The Artist's Words

Here's a quickie for a Sunday evening...

In August 1915, an article in the New Britain Daily Herald (New Britain, Connecticut) included descriptions of the Panama-Pacific International Exposition commemorative coins as offered by the artist of each coin. I find Robert Aitken's description of the Gold Quintuple Eagles ($50) to be particularly intriguing.

He offered that the "motives" (aka "motifs") were selected for the coin "because of their simple dignity and far-reaching significance, as well as for their decorative pattern". On the obverse, Minerva "the goddess of wisdom, skill, contemplation, spinning, weaving and of agriculture and horticulture." I would agree, the allegorical Minerva has proven to be a timeless symbol around the world and an ideal symbol on the coin representing the wisdom and skill that were needed to complete the arduous task of building the Panama Canal in the face of many challenges (e.g., geographical, technological, medical, etc.).

On the reverse, an "Owl, sacred to Minerva, the accepted symbol of wisdom, perched upon a branch of western pine." The dolphins seen on the Octagonal variety "suggesting as they encircle the central field, the uninterrupted water route made possible by the Panama Canal." Once again, meaningful symbolism that, IMO, hits the mark.

I always enjoy insights into the artist's mind!

Note: Aitken's description also appeared in the 1915 Annual Report of the Director of the US Mint.


1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition Gold Quintuple Eagle - Octagonal

(Image Credit: PCGS CoinFacts.)


For other of my posts about commemorative coins and medals, including other What If? stories, see: Commems Collection.