The Chinese Junk 'Keying' Commemorative Medal 1848

Commemorating the first and only Chinese Junk to make navigation by 'Sail' from China to the United Kingdom

An uncommonly bright crisp example of the large (44mm) 'White-Metal' medal by Thomas Halliday. This pierced at 12 O'Clock, and fitted with a small brass ring

Obverse: Port broadside view of the junk 'Keying' at anchor, small boats in the foreground. Legend: 'CHINESE JUNK KEYING CAPTAIN KELLETT'. Exergue: 'EXTREME BREADTH 33 FEET BURDEN 750 TONS DEPTH OF HOLD 16 FEET'

Reverse: Inscription, 'THIS REMARKABLE VESSEL IS A JUNK OF THE LARGEST CLASS, AND IS THE FIRST SHIP CONSTRUCTED BY THE CHINESE WHICH HAS REACHED EUROPE, OR EVEN ROUNDED THE CAPE OF GOOD HOPE. THIS JUNK WAS PURCHASED AUGUST 1846, AT CANTON, BY A FEW ENTERPRISING ENGLISHMEN. SHE SAILED FROM HONG KONG 6TH DECEMBER 1846 ROUNDED THE CAPE 31ST MARCH 1847 ARRIVED IN ENGLAND 27TH MARCH 1848.'

Extremely scarce found in this choice condition, and a most desirable medal of British Empire & in particular Hong Kong Colony and Qing Dynasty China interest

Condition: About EF

Code: 22407