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John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA
Chest
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA
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Chest

Artifact IDMO 63.1577
Object Type Chest
Date ca. 1961
Date Presented5/31/1961
Place MadeFrance, Europe
Medium Pewter
DimensionsOverall H 4 in x W 8 in x D 4 1/2 in (10.2 cm x 20.3 cm x 11.4 cm)
Physical DescriptionRectangular shaped chest with relief depictions of medals originally minted by the Paris Mint on the 4 sides and lid. The medallions of George Washington in profile and Riders overlooking Boston are from a medallion commissioned by the American Congress in 1787 commemorating the liberation of Boston from the British occupation. The Latin legend is inscribed "Hostibus Primo Fugatis" or "for the first time the enemies are put to flight." The Latin exurgue is inscribed "Bostonium Recuperatum XVII Martii, MCCCLXXVI" or "Boston is recovered March 17, 1776 (Evacuation Day)." The medallion on the left side of the box, of Marquis de Lafayette in profile, is a replica of a coin produced by the Paris Mint commemorating the bicentennial of his birth. The medal on the front side of the chest is of Abraham Lincoln. The medallion on the lid of the box is the female personification of France, Republique Francaise. The inside of the lid has an inscription in relief print, "Les Groupesperlementaires, D'Amitie, France Etats Unis."
Historical NoteThis chest was presented to President John F. Kennedy by the members of the French parliament, on May 31, 1961 during the President's state visit to France.
Additional Details
Custodial History NoteItem was a gift from a foreign official to the President and First Lady received through the Executive office during the Kennedy Administration and transferred to the General Service Administration where it was held until donated to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum by the Estate of President John F. Kennedy in 1965.
Credit LineGift to President John F. Kennedy from the French Parliament; John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA; Gift of the Estate of President John F. Kennedy
National Archives Catalog CollectionJohn F. Kennedy Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 1676934)
National Archives Catalog SeriesGifts from Heads of State (National Archives Identifier 1677008)
Use Restriction StatusUnrestrictedUse Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.
In Collection(s)
Not on view