The Gift of the Bartholdi Statue of Liberty by the French to the American Republic, 1886 1886

This silver medal was designed by Louis-Oscar Roty in 1886. It commemorates the gift of the Statue of Liberty from France to the United States. Note the prominent figure of the Statue of Liberty in the background, a modern colossus. See how it echoes the ancient Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. This updated colossus holds aloft a torch, not just of welcome, but of enlightenment. Observe the two seated female figures clasped hands. Their gestures reach back to antiquity, resonating with images of concordia, or harmony, found on ancient Roman coins. It expresses the hope for unity and mutual respect between nations. The image presents a potent blend of classical and modern symbols. The hope is that this infusion of Liberty, will be forever illuminated in the collective consciousness.