Expert: Dmitry Livshits - 11/8/2011

Question
Hi, I have two more medals, I think are prize or award medals for participation or wining competition. The first one, Obverse; Seated woman on a field, have signed by Rene Baudichon. Reverse; a branch, maybe olive with a plaque. Leyend; "Alliance Syndicale Du Commerce Et De L Industrie Paris". Metal silvered bronce, I think, 55mm. I want to know the motive, the year and value if it possible.
The second one, Obverse; a dog carring a bird from hunting, signed by Hugueniner or some think. Reverse; a branch with plaque. Leyend; rouen 1924. Bronce, 50mm. I want to know the Country, motive, year and value. Thank you.

Answer
I actually saw one of the 50 real medals that you asked me about earlier. The value you got on it from Kathy seems to be a little low: http://www.ebay.com/itm/SPAIN-VERY-LARGE-1636-SILVER-50-REALES-COIN-/12080703281


Hi Ramon,
The first medal is for the United Alliance for Trade and Industry. There are many different medals for this organization. It seems like they awarded a new one every year, likely in recognition of service to or on behalf of the organization. These were generic medals that were then engraved with the name of who they were being awarded to. On the European market it would be worth 25 to 30 euro. The value would have been a little more if it did not have a name carved into the surface.
The second medal is by Huguenin, a medallist company based in Le Locle, Switzerland. That company opened in the 1860's and still operates today.
During this time the company was involved in making medals for the Swiss shooting festivals. This medal is a blank, meant to be inscribed for whatever reason it is being rewarded. Unlike the first medal, which was made for a specific event, there is no way of knowing what exactly is the motive for it. I am not sure what the letters "R.A.C.A.F." stand for, but that is most likely an abbreviation for the event. The medal itself is being awarded for "Alertness", or being a good "lookout" or "spotter" as is meant by "Qui-vive". Other medals would exist with this same design, but different inscriptions.
Value for this one would be in the $25 range. Collectors generally prefer medals that were made with all the info, rather than having that info carved into the surface.
Thanks again! =)