Commemorative, Historical and Art Medals

United Kingdom, British Colonies and unspecified British-made Anti-Slavery Medals, Anti-Slavery Convention, London, 1840, a white metal medal by J. Davis after B.R. Haydon, bust of Thomas Clarkson three-quarters right, rev. slave in chains kneels with arms raised to God, 52mm (BHM 1977; E 1342). Extremely fine £200-250

Provenance: Bonham’s Auction, 13 September 1994, lot 606.

The British and Foreign Anti-Slavery Society (formerly the Anti-Slavery Society), held the world’s first anti-slavery convention in 1840 at Exeter Hall, Strand, London. Thomas Clarkson (1760-1846) was president and Prince Albert chaired several events. It was originally planned as an all-male meeting but because female delegates arrived from America women were admitted but could not fully participate

The metal is copper