casting sept 26, bronze - coin, public domain photograph

Who are these men? What is this object? Is it a copper coin? All very good questions! An oversized proof of the obverse or front side of a Calumet & Hecla service medal, this piece is made of bronze and depicts Alexander Agassiz and Quincy Shaw. The casting itself utilized copper in its creation. How? Bronze is an alloy metal, a combination of copper and tin. This combination results in a metal stronger than the copper itself. Like the combining of two metals for added strength, Calumet & Hecla was once two separate mining companies that were consolidated to become a stronger and more successful company.
The company was led for many years by the men profiled on this proof. Quincy Shaw, who was married to Agassiz’s sister, was the first president, and remained a member of the board of directors after his tenure as president. Agassiz (forefront) was president from 1871 until his death in 1910. Two metals, two companies, and two family members: working together for increased strength and resilience