The obverse bears bust l. of Charles Edward Anthon. Around, CHARLES EDWARD ANTHON, LL.D.; signed below truncation, LEA AHLBORN.
The reverse bears five-line inscription within wreath of oak (left) and laurel (right); ANS seal at center bottom. Around, PRESIDENT AMERICAN NUMISMATIC AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOCIETY 1869 - 1883; in center, BORN IN / NEW YORK CITY / DEC. 6. 1822. / DIED AT BREMEN / JUNE 7. 1883.
This is the 7th medal issued by the American Numismatic Society. Anthon served, with interruptions, as the ANS' President for many between 1867 and his death in 1883. The Society commemorated him with this medal in 1884. While the original subscription was soon filled, subsequent medal sales lingered for many years as both bronze and silver medals were still available for sale thirty years later in 1915. Members appreciated the medal's artistry and quality but they were not impressed by the likeness.
The medal measures 68mm in diameter and was struck by the Royal Swedish Mint in bronze and silver. A total of 15 silver and 85 bronze pieces were produced in 1884.
References: ANS 7