Object Record
Images
Metadata
Catalog Number |
2009.29 |
Object Name |
Medal, Commemorative |
Title |
The Premium of John Hyacinth de Magellan |
Artist |
Unknown |
Date |
1888 |
Description |
Gold oval medallion displayed within velvet mount, in a double-sided wood and glass frame. Inscribed on the obverse: "NON DEI LEGES MUTARE SED IN HOMINUM USUM ADHIBERE" in relief around perimeter. "The Premium of John Hyacinth De Magellan OF LONDON / ESTABLISHED IN THE YEAR 1786" in center, inside laurel wreath. Inscribed on the reverse: "PHILADELPHIA PENNSYLVANIENSIS DECEMBER MDCCCLXXXVII" in relief around perimeter. "AWARDED BY THE American Philosophical Society to Louis M. Haupt FOR HIS DISCOVERY IN PHYSICAL HYDROGRAPHY & FOR HIS INVENTION OF A SYSTEM OF HARBOR IMPROVEMENT," in center. Presented along with the papers of Lewis M. Haupt (APS Library). |
Label |
In 1786, Portuguese scientist Jean (or John) Hyacinth Magellan donated 200 guineas to the APS to establish a yearly scientific prize, known as the Magellanic Premium (or Prize) or the Magellanic Gold Medal. Magellan stipulated that premiums would be awarded for important discoveries or useful improvements in navigation, natural philosophy, and astronomy. Since the prize's inception, the APS has awarded just thirty-two premiums for innovations as diverse as "a theory of rain" (1836) and the Global Positioning System or GPS (1997). Lewis M. Haupt received this particular gold medal in 1887 for his study of physical hydrography and improvement of harbor entrances. |
Material |
Gold |
Dimensions |
H-2.938 W-1.875 inches |
Dimension Details |
Height incl. hook at top; oval Framed: 7.875 x 6.375 x 1 |
Credit line |
American Philosophical Society. Gift of Miss B. M. Haupt, 1957. |
Search Terms |
19th century nineteenth century award |