The obverse bears Art Deco style allegory depicting a kneeling female figure (representing the city) with five smaller figures (representing the five boroughs) standing on her extended leg. Around, THE CITY OF NEW YORK / * * * * *; signed along edge at 5:00 position: MICHAEL LANTZ.
The reverse bears flying male figure at top with skyscrapers below to either side; at bottom right, a reclining female figure holding book; at bottom left, a factory with smokestacks; at center, inscribed field surrounded by the names of the five boroughs: MANHATTAN BROOKLYN QUEENS BRONX RICHMOND. This piece contains inscription: PRESENTED BY / MAYOR / WILLIAM O'DWYER / TO MAYOR / KENDIG C. BARE / LANCASTER. PENN. / 1950
This medal is the highest award conferred upon civilians by the City of New York. The medal is presented by the Mayor to those individuals who have demonstrated, "exceptional citizenship and outstanding achievement."
The recipients come from a wide range of backgrounds, including ordinary citizens, foreign dignitaries, athletes, and film stars. The recipient of this particular piece was Kendig C. Bare, the mayor of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. He was mayor from 1950 to 1958 and served in the Korean War in 1950/1951. This particular piece seems to be one of the earliest because the medal was only designed in 1948. There is also a companion Golden Anniversary medal that shares many of the design elements.
This medal measures 70mm in diameter and was struck in bronze by the Medallic Art Company of New York. No mintage is reported.
References: MACo 1948-012-001, Marqusee 236