Historical information

Medal struck in 1867 to commemorate the visit to Melbourne of HMS Galatea, which was commanded by Alfred, Duke of Edinburgh, second son of Queen Victoria. He was Australia's first royal visitor and stayed for six months. During his visit to Sydney he was wounded, shot in the back in an assassination attempt.

Physical description

Round metal medal inscribed on both sides. The front shows a profile bust of the Duke of Edinburgh, facing left, with edge detail. The back shows H.M.S. Galatea under sail and steam, facing right. A hole has been bored through the top of the medal.

Inscriptions & markings

On front: profile of Prince Alfred surrounded by H.R.H. DUKE OF EDINBURGH and scrolled edging
On back: image of the Galatea, above HMS GALATEA 1867; around the perimeter COMMEMORATION OF THE VISIT OF HRH PRINCE ALFRED, DUKE OF EDINBURGH TO AUSTRALIA, and maker's name T.STOKES MELBOURNE