91TV

91TV Library holds a remarkable collection of , reflecting centuries of scientific achievement. An audit of this collection has recently been completed, an important step in improving how these objects are managed, recorded and preserved.

Following the audit, we began a programme of digitisation, photographing medals to better document them and make them more accessible for research and public engagement. The collection includes medals awarded by the Royal Society itself, alongside commemorative pieces from other institutions. Having completed the first batch of digitisation, I wanted to spread the word by highlighting a few particularly notable examples.

One of the first to be digitised was the Royal Medal awarded to in 1828 (below). Crafted in silver, the obverse shows a bust of George IV, stamped “W WYON,” while the reverse has Isaac Newton standing amid astronomical motifs. The edge is engraved with Wollaston’s name and the date MDCCCXXVIII, and the medal is set in glazed lunettes joined with a silver rim:

 (Royal Society Picture Library )

A later Royal Medal, nearly identical in design but featuring a portrait of Queen Victoria, was awarded to in 1861 ‘for his researches on the ’. Digitising these medals preserves their intricate craftsmanship while making the Society’s long tradition of recognising distinguished scientific achievement more widely accessible.

Another striking piece is our (below), dating from around 1723. The obverse features a left-profile bust of the architect in a flowing wig, wearing a vest and loose mantle, while the reverse shows the west front of St. Paul’s Cathedral, his most celebrated architectural achievement. Cast in bronze and measuring 100mm in diameter, this medal honours the life and work of (1632–1723). Digitisation captures both the fine portraiture and architectural detail, ensuring this celebration of accomplishment is preserved for future study and public appreciation.

 (Royal Society Picture Library )

Also included in the collection is a 1903 commemorative plaque of (1827–1917), the veterinary and physiological pioneer, signed on both sides by the sculptor Paul Richer. The obverse shows a right-profile bust of Chauveau, dressed in collar, tie and coat; the scene on the reverse shows some science in action, with Chauveau and two assistants recording the heartbeats of a horse. Cast in bronze and measuring 70 by 56mm, the plaque offers a window into Chauveau’s world.

 (Royal Society Picture Library )

Finally, our is another captivating piece in the collection. Struck in silvered bronze and measuring 51mm in diameter, the obverse shows a left-profile bust of with short hair, wearing a shirt with an open collar and a mantle draped over his shoulders, stamped ‘I.C.’ for . The reverse has an allegorical figure of Science, shown with winged head, seated and leaning upon a table while holding a diagram of the solar system, dated MDCCXXVI. This medal celebrates the life of one of the most influential figures in the history of science. As a Master of the Royal Mint, one can imagine Newton running a beady eye over the quality of this one!

 (Royal Society Picture Library )

The first batch of medals is now digitised, and you can view , with more to follow. We’re excited about the next phase of the project. Upcoming highlights include some of the Royal Society’s most prestigious awards, such as Nobel Prize medals and other international distinctions associated with our Fellows.

Digitisation will allow you to admire the artistry and intricate designs of the medalists and mark a moment in the careers of the medal recipients, those scientists recognised by the Society. We look forward to sharing these future additions and we’ll give you a heads-up when they proceed.