183: RIZALIANA Medals: Honoring the Legacy of Jose Rizal

 

During the American colonial rule to the Commonwealth era, and even during the troubled years of the Japanese Occupation, Rizal Day was religiously observed on two occasions - Rizal’s birth and death anniversaries. However, after the Liberation, these celebrations became more subdued and sober affairs, consisting mostly of simple ceremonies such as raising the flag, singing the National Anthem, laying wreaths before Rizal’s monument, and brief programs with speeches delivered by local officials.

Obviously, these historic events merited permanent recording for posterity. As a means of preserving memories of these important moments in Philippine history, commemorative Rizal medals were struck almost annually in silver, bronze, gilt, and occasionally in solid gold. These medals were crafted by both unidentified engravers and well-known artists such as Crispulo and Luis Zamora, C. Valdez, and El Oro.

 The earliest known Rizaliana medal was issued in late 1901, and many more were minted in varying sizes, shapes, and designs during the succeeding years. The traditional minting of these medals contributed without let-up, but it was during the Birth Centenary of Rizal in 1961 that a bumper harvest of them were struck in practically all types of metals to the sheer delight and approval of medal collectors particularly those specializing in Rizaliana. 

These medals were issued by national and local governments, civic and socio-economic organizations, universities and schools, corporations, and even private individuals. Today, these medals serve as a reminder of the rich legacy of Jose Rizal and the important role he played in the history of the Philippines.

RIZAL IN GOLD. (1) Procesion Cívica / Rizal Day / 1906 / Filipinas; (2) 1910 Ateneo Rizal Colegio De Farmacia awarded to Juan Quizon; (3) 1998 Philippine Centennial / Kalayaaan/ National Hero Jose Rizal;  (4) 1982 One Piso / Ang Bagong Lipunan coin in Gold.

Counterstamped coins that were stuck in 1961 to commemorate Rizal’s Birth Centennial and Martyrdom.

A collection of pins and buttons honoring Jose Rizal

Jose Rizal medals made of plaster

Various Rizaliana medals and pins which capture a different aspect of Jose Rizal's legacy, from historical events to his influence on establishments, places and landmarks.