American Legion School Award Medal

Joseph E. Renier, American Legion School Award Medal, 1950, bronze, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mrs. Joseph Renier, 1967.93.47
Copied Joseph E. Renier, American Legion School Award Medal, 1950, bronze, 2 1⁄2 in. (6.4 cm) diam., Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mrs. Joseph Renier, 1967.93.47

Artwork Details

Title
American Legion School Award Medal
Artist
Founder
Medallic Art Company
Date
1950
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
2 1⁄2 in. (6.4 cm) diam.
Credit Line
Gift of Mrs. Joseph Renier
Mediums
Mediums Description
bronze
Classifications
Subjects
  • Object — weapon — sword
  • Object — weapon — gun
  • Emblem
  • Figure group — male
  • Object — written matter — book
  • Object — furniture — lamp
  • Occupation — military
Object Number
1967.93.47
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1967.93.47

Artwork Description

The American Legion School Award began as a yearly prize given to males graduating from the eighth grade. On the reverse of Joseph Renier’s medal, the lamp of wisdom rests upon an open book. The five-pointed star below represents the qualities listed around the perimeter of the image. This star also symbolizes the five branches of the military that appear on the obverse: here, a sailor, an aviator and three soldiers evoke not only the organization sponsoring the award, but also the ideal career of the student who receives it.