Expert: Dmitry Livshits - 12/13/2011

Question
Hi, friend,
I have two more medals for you; the first one, I think is a competition medal from Belgie, is like plated bronze 1895, 50mm. Obverse; Some kind of castle, legend; "22 Fete Federale Belge De Gymnastique Bruxelles 20-23 Juillet 1895"'signed FISCH. Reverse; Space sorounded by some kind of branches. Can you tell me the Country, the purpose, metal and value?
The second one is abeautifull medal from Cuba 1858, is like bronze guilt, 55mmX64mm oval. Obverse; Neptune in cariage below crown and shield. Reverse; Legend in spanish. Aqueduct inauguration in La Havana. How rare is and the value? Thanks

Answer
Hi again Ramon,
The first is from Belgium, it is a blank award medal for the gymnastics competition that was held every year. This one was in Brussels. It is most likely silver gilding on bronze like you said. Because it's blank and was not awarded, I would not expect more than $50 for it. Some medals from these events are made without a blank space for a name. These are worth more.
The second one is rare, I have seen maybe 3 or 4 of them in the past. All the colonial era Cuban items are pretty rare. This medal was made in plain bronze and gold gilded bronze, like your medal is. Value in this condition is between $250 to $300+ at auction and even more from a coin shop or dealer.
Thanks again! =)