Collections Item Detail
Commemorative medallion: Lincoln Tunnel, Dedicated 1937. Built and Owned by the Port of New York Authority.
Object/Artifact
Commemorative medal: "Lincoln Tunnel, Dedicated 1937. Built and Owned by the Port of New York Authority." Reproduction issued November 1987 by Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of tunnel opening. Bronze, 3" diameter x ca. 1/4" thick. See objects 2011.049.0301 for a 1937 medal.
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 1-1/4" diameter) 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. The copy here once belonged to Joseph Giangardella.
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 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.]
Stamped "BRONZE" on bottom edge.
2001.188.5001
2001.188
Foster, Robert
Field Collection
Gift of Robert Foster
1987
Good
Status: OK Status By: dw Status Date: 2012-03-28