The medal's obverse bears nude male figure, kneeling, facing right, holding bow in left hand, cloak draped over arm; heavily beaded border around. At left, TO KAΛΛINIKON.
The reverse bears Roman helmet with horse design. Across, YALE - UNI-/VERSITY · / HENRY · ELIAS - HOWLAND / MEMORIAL MEDAL
Yale University's Henry Howland Memorial Prize was created in 1915 for a "citizen of any country in recognition of some achievement of marked distinction in the field of literature or fine arts or the science of government." The idealistic quality of the recipient's work is an important factor in his selection.
The award was established in honor of Henry Elias Howland (1835–1913), a member of the Yale class of 1854, by a donation of $15,000 by his children Charles P. Howland (Yale 1891), Dr. John Howland (Yale 1894), and Frances Howland. The prize has generally been awarded every two years. Henry Elias Howland was a Justice and a member of the Yale Corporation. He also served as President of the Yale Club in New York City and the Descendants of the Mayflower organization.
The obverse legend TO KAΛΛINIKON might refer to a battle between the Byzantine empire and an invading Persian army near the city of Kallinikon. General Belisarius saved the day by crossing the Euphrates on boat to rally fleeing Roman troops and turn the tide of battle.
The circular medal measures 72.9mm in diameter and was struck in bronze by the Medallic Art Company of New York. No mintage is reported.
Many thanks to the Numismatics department of the Yale University Art Gallery for their generosity and support in making this medal available to me for research.
References: MACo 1917-018