The obverse bears bust of Algernon Sydney Sullivan, l. Above, * IN * HONOR * OF * / ALGERNON SYDNEY SULLIVAN / 1826 1887; below, (flower) (flower) (flower) / HE REACHED OUT BOTH HANDS IN CONSTANT / * HELPFULNESS TO HIS FELLOW MEN *; signed in lower right corner, J.E. ROINÉ
The reverse bears an older man reaching out to aid a youth, his flaming torch lighting the younger's. Below is a quote from James Russell Lowell: AS ONE LAMP LIGHTS ANOTHER NOR GROWS LESS / SO NOBLENESS ENKINDLETH NOBLENESS; signed at lower right, J.E. ROINÉ
This medal was the 20th official issue of the American Numismatic Society. Originally struck by Whitehead-Hoag, the Medallic Art Company of New York issued a restrike in 1959.
The rectangular medal measures 60mm x 88mm and was struck by the Arthus Bertrand and J.K.Davison's Sons. The mintage is unknown for both bronze and silver editions.
References: ANS 20