RSA (Pre-1994): First Durban Military Tattoo
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Form:
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Circular. Gold and silver medals proof struck.
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By:
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Pagliari / Cape Mint |
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Date:
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1979 |
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Ref:
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Laidlaw: 0151;
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Variations:
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| Size | Metal | Mass | Value |
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| 38.1 mm | 18ct Gold | 35.0 gm | $1,175 | | 38.2 mm | Silver | 29.4 gm | $40 | | 38.2 mm | Bronze | 24,1 gm | $18 |
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Edge:
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Plain. Gold medal stamped with 18ct hallmark of the Cape Mint. Silver medal stamped for sterling: "CM S925 (springbok head) F (for 1979)".
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Obverse:
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Bust of uniformed member of the President’s Guard shouting an order, right. Legend: “THE DURBAN (left) MILITARY TATTOO (right)”, and below: “1979”. Signed on the shoulder: “PAGLIARI”
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Reverse:
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Crossed swords behind a male lion at rest facing left. Legend above: “LION MATCH COMPANY” and below: “WILKINSON SWORD (S.A.)”
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Notes:
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Silver and gold medals come in a fitted red-leather case lined with red velvet and silk on the lid: "(coat of arms of Cape Mint) / THE CAPE MINT / (PTY) LTD. / CAPE TOWN".
The Durban Military Tattoo was modelled after the well-known military tattoo held annually during the Edinburgh Festival in front of the Castle. Commencing in 1979, Durban’s tattoo was held in the King’s Park rugby grounds. It was only moderately successful, and ceased to run after a few years. The venue has since moved to Johannesburg. Lion’s Match and Wilkinson Sword were sponsors of the event.
The author of this website was a member of the Scottish Country Dance Team that performed at the event.
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