I spent a lot of the day loading a set of Flying Scotsman medallions. They are interesting things – five in silver and one in 9 carat gold. Technically they are three sets, but we’ve put them all together to get them all away at the same time.
The six medallions
The pads in the box are actually black but the camera sometimes does strange things. And the boxes are square.
The story of the Flying Scotsman is full of interest, with World Records, grand obsessions and a host of sub-plots. If you follow the link in the first line you will get a good idea of the adventures it has had.
A piece of Flying Scotsman in the middle of a silver medallion – if you read what was replaced in the pre-2016 refit you will appreciate how many spare bits they had.
The gold medal is a very pleasant medal, though it does lack a piece of the original train. A few months ago we had some silver coins with pieces of copper from HMS Victory. It’s not a new idea, somewhere in the house I have a medal cast from the lead of Selby Abbey roof. After the 1906 fire they made the medallions and sold them in aid of the rebuilding. (Readers from the USA may be interested to note the picture of the Washington family coat of arms if they follow this link).
You can also learn a lot about marketing if you study the way these things are sold.
It was an interesting afternoon. I was tempted to write more about it on eBay, but I’m paid to sell, not to write. It’s here if you want to read more.
My favourite steam engine is the Mallard.
Mine too. I once read a book on the speed record – real Boy’s Own adventure stuff!
Better than your average designs
That is true. They are quite good compared to the average medal I get to work with. 🙂
SO interesting to see the Ebay listing! So that is the listing that you yourself wrote and put up? That just tickles me, if so. It’s like being right there at work with you.
Yes, once the parcels are packed, that’s what I do. I also drink coffee, check personal emails, serve customers (when forced), buy junk and steal stationery. I’m not a model employee. 🙂
That made me laugh. At least you’re honest.
The boss has no illusions – I’m the best he’s going to get. 🙂
If you ever figure out how to be paid for writing, let me know. 😉
🙂 Will do.
I used to catch the Flying Scotsman service in the 1950s but by that time it was probably being hauled by a diesel.
I remember catching a diesel for the first time – around 1963 – from Blackburn to Blackpool. It seemed like something out of Dan Dare.