James Earle Fraser, Pony Express, 1952, bronze, 2 7⁄8 in. (7.3 cm) diam., Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the heirs of Albert Laessle: Mrs. Albertine de Bempt Laessle, Mr. Albert M. Laessle and Mr. Paul Laessle, 1972.167.12
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Artwork Details
- Title
- Pony Express
- Artist
- Commissioner
- Society of Medallic Arts
- Founder
- Medallic Art Company
- Date
- 1952
- Location
- Not on view
- Dimensions
- 2 7⁄8 in. (7.3 cm) diam.
- Credit Line
- Gift of the heirs of Albert Laessle: Mrs. Albertine de Bempt Laessle, Mr. Albert M. Laessle and Mr. Paul Laessle
- Mediums
- Mediums Description
- bronze
- Subjects
- Equestrian
- History — United States — exploration
- History — United States — Pony Express
- Architecture — vehicle — wagon
- Animal — cattle
- Figure male — full length
- Object Number
- 1972.167.12
Artwork Description
This medal is one of James Fraser’s last medallic works and honors the Pony Express, the legendary mail service that ran from April 1860 until October 1861. The image shows a rider fending off attackers and galloping at full speed to his next stop where a fresh horse awaits him. The inscription “Ten days to San Francisco ” was the Pony Express guarantee for transcontinental service. The reverse side of the medal, with the motto “New Frontiers 1849,” reworks a design originally used on the 1926 Oregon Trail commemorative half-dollar.