The medal's obverse bears bearded Socrates, facing left, discussing philosphy with three disciples, facing right. Around, SOCRATES DISCUSSING WITH HIS DISCIPLES; signed at lower right, (IM monogram)
The reverse bears bearded Plato writing on tablet in his lap; muse to his right. Around, THE PHILOSOPHER IN THE GRIP OF INSPIRATION; signed at lower right, (IM monogram) / C
This medal was chosen as the 50th issue of the prestigious Society of Medalists series. The original models bore no legend. The Society's advisory board loved the design but, at the urging of Paul Manship, the legends were added.
While SoM medals usually exhibit very high relief, this medal is unlike any other in the series. The relief is flat, and the design quite sparse. It's more like a sketch than like a fully worked bas-relief. Nevertheless, through the thoughtful application of tan patina, the medal gains depth and is quite stunning in its simplicity.
The circular medal measures 73mm in diameter and was struck in bronze and silver by the Medallic Art Company. The mintage was reported as 690 pieces in bronze. The number of silver pieces is not known but the edition was limited to 700.
References: MACo 1930-001-050, SoM 50