Historic 9ct gold rowing fob medal won by F.G.N. Lumsden, the coxwain, as Durham University Boat Club won their first ever Grand Challenge Cup at the prestigious Durham Regatta, second only to Henley Royal Regatta in terms of prestige.
The front of the medal is engraved:
"DURHAM REGATTA 1881"
The obverse is engraved:
"GRAND CHALLENGE CUP. F.G.N. LUMSDEN COXWAIN".
Weight: 7.5 gm. Diameter: 30 mm. Hallmark: Due to its age the medal is not hallmarked but it has been tested as at least 9ct gold.
Durham University Boat Club: The club was founded in 1877 as the boat club for Durham University. Prior to this date, individual colleges at the University raced with their own teams very successfully.
It was not until 1881 when Durham University Boat Club won its first ever Grand Challenge Cup at the annual Durham Regatta. The Grand Challenge Cup is the most important event at the regatta so this was an historic victory (NOTE: please visit www.dubc.co.uk (the website for Durham University Boat Club) to confirm these details & from where I printed the confirmation note (see final photo).
Summary: Early medals from Durham Regatta are very collectable but the medal for sale also has historic significance for DUBC. I would be surprised if someone connected to this club would not want this medal for their collection. Good luck!