The obverse bears nude Columbia seated on winged car, holding palm frond in outstretched left and resting right on cornucopia; on left, rising sun over clouds; on right, clouds. At left above sun, 1892; signed at right with artist's letter V.
The reverse bears dedication: TO / Thies J. Lefens / ONE OF THE DIRECTORS / OF THE WORLD'S / COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION / FROM ITS PRESIDENT / HARLOW N. HIGINBOTHAM / CHICAGO / 1893
Thies Jacob Lefens (1846-1913) was a Chicago-based real estate dealer and businessman. He was born in Hamburg and emigrated to the U.S. in 1863. After working in the produce commission business he joined the Conrad Seipp brewing company, where he eventually became secretary and treasurer. He married into the Seipp family and entered the real estate business.
This medal exists in several variations and materials. Vedder's design on the obvese is combined with different dedications to honor designers, architects, managers, and other high-ranking dignitaries of the Columbian Exposition. All variations are quite rare.
The circular medal measures 64mm in diameter and was struck in silver. No mintage is reported.
Images courtesy of Stack's Bowers Galleries, www.StacksBowers.com.