lifesaving medal

Lifesaving medal. Obverse: Humane Society of Massachusetts, inc. 1791. Around rim "Refuge" at top. On shield: 2 lifesaving boats, clasped hands, wrecked ship. At bottom: B. Wyon Fecit London 1791 (designer). Benjamin Wyon (1802-1858). Reverse: Officers of the Institution (around rim) followed by the names. 1866. Wyon was appointed Chief Engraver of the Seals in 1831 and made the great seal of William IV of England; see also 1959.1094.