Rare Antique William Wilberforce Slave Abolitionist Medal 1807
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A Rare Antique William Wilberforce Slave Abolitionist Medal 1807. Struck In 1807 To Celebrate The Abolition Of The Slave Trade. The Reverse Shows Britannia Seated On A Dias Attended By Figures Representing Medicine, Trade And Knowledge, With Faith Above. The Inscription Reads ‘I Have Heard The Cry’ - Slave Trade Abolished MDCCCVII (1807). Designed By T.Webb. The Medal Is Enclosed Within A Sealed Period Frame Which Has Helped Retain Its Condition. A Very Rare Find!
William Wilberforce was a British politician and leader of the movement to abolish the slave trade in the British Empire. A member of Parliament from 1780, Wilberforce became deeply involved in the abolitionist cause.
In 1789, Wilberforce introduced his first anti-slavery bill to Parliament, but it faced strong opposition from those profiting from the trade. He persisted for over two decades, delivering passionate speeches and leading campaigns for public awareness. His efforts culminated in the passage of the Slave Trade Act in 1807, which made the trade of enslaved people illegal in the British Empire.
The medallion I’m showing you here was struck in 1807 to recognise Wilberforce’s work.
Wilberforce continued to advocate for the complete abolition of slavery. His perseverance paid off shortly before his death in 1833, when the Slavery Abolition Act was passed, ending slavery throughout most of the British Empire. His legacy as a key figure in the fight against slavery remains significant today.
Condition is good, commensurate with age. Structurally sound.
Measures 5.5cm diameter (medal) & 12.2cm x 12.2cm (frame)
Weighs 201.86 grams