The 'Cape-to-Cairo' flag of Cecil Rhodes CECIL RHODES The 'Cape-to-Cairo' flag of Cecil Rhodes


Cecil Rhodes Funeral Train Medal, 1902 (Struck in Silver)


Cecil John Rhodes died in Cape Town at the age of 49 on 26 March 1902. His body was transported with great ceremony by train from Cape Town to Bulawayo and this medal was struck for presentation to those friends and dignitaries who travelled on the funeral train as well as railway personnel on the train. Some medals are named. This particular medal is engraved: “C.J. HAYES” who was one of railway personnel on the train [I am guessing as I see there was a railway engine driver with this name at the same time]. Any information on this chap would be appreciated.

Cecil J. Rhodes funeral medal - CJ Hayes


From Bulawayo his body was transported by ox-wagon to the Matopo Hills where he was buried on 11 April 1902. There is a good write-up on the funeral here.


Form: Circular with attached boss through which passes a suspension ring. The ribbon is blue with brooch bar at the top stamped: “SPINK & SON LONDON”.
By: Spink & Son, London
Date: 1902
Ref: AM2: 67; Laidlaw: 0503;
Size: 32.4 mm
Metal: Silver
Mass: 21.9 gm
Edge: Plain. Sometimes engraved with recipient’s name.
Obverse: Bareheaded bust of Rhodes in suit with wing collar and tie, front. Legend above: “CECIL RHODES”.
Reverse: Within a wreath of palm frond (left) and oak branch with acorns (right), fluted shield with baton/horn(?) below. On the shield across: “IN / MEMORY OF / C.J.R / APRIL 16TH / 1902”.
Comes inside a fitted maroon leather case lined with red silk and maroon velvet. On the inside of the lid in gilt: "SPINK & SON / DIE SINKERS AND MEDALLISTS / 17 & 18. PICCADILLY / LONDON / ESTD. 1772".

Given the date on the medal, it may be assumed that the presentation took place after the funeral train had returned to Cape Town.



Cecil J. Rhodes funeral medel w/ ribbon (front).
Front of medal w/ ribbon. 		Cecil J. Rhodes funeral medel w/ ribbon (back).
Back of medal w/ ribbon.
Cecil J. Rhodes funeral medal w/ ribbon in case
Medal w/ ribbon in case.
NOTE: I looking for this medal in case or just the case.
Please contact me if you have either one for sale. Thank you.