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Ref: 6964	Wales, Menai Strait, Robert Stephenson’s tubular bridge completed 1850, bronze medal by L C Wyon, rare Obv: bust of Robert Stephenson right Rev: a view of the bridge between the Welsh mainland and Anglesey, sailing boats in the Menai strait, dates 1846-1850 in exergue Condition: Extremely fine or nearly so; Diameter: 58mm References: BHM 2402; E 1441; Taylor 164a Notes: Robert Stephenson (1803-1859), son of George Stephenson of railway fame. The bridge was opened on 5th March 1850 and was revolutionary in its tubular design. However it was completely rebuilt in 1972 following a fire in 1970. It has two lions at each end, inspiring the following bardic lines by John Evans (1826-1888): Pedwar llew tew Heb ddim blew Dau'r ochr yma A dau'r ochr drew Four fat lions Without any fur Two this side And two the other side Laurence Brown (BHM) has suggested the bronze edition of this medal was limited to about 120 specimens, and consequently the medal is very rare. Price £225

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