Paris Universal Exposition Uruguay Pavilion Opening Medal
Key Information:
• Country: Uruguay
• Event: Inauguration of the national pavilion
• Exhibition: Paris Universal Exposition
• Date: 28 June 1889
• Designer / Medalist: E. Lemoine
• Place: Paris
• Diameter: Approx. 32.95 mm
• Suspension: Ribbon
Medal Design:
Obverse:
Allegorical female figure representing the nation, standing beside a shield and national symbols. In the background appears industrial imagery including a steam locomotive, symbolizing progress and modern development.
At the bottom appears the engraver signature:
E. Lemoine Gr. Paris
Reverse:
Inscription:
INAUGURACION DEL PABELLON DE LA REPUBLICA ORIENTAL DEL URUGUAY 
PARIS 28 JUNIO DE 1889
Translation:
Inauguration of the Pavilion of the Oriental Republic of Uruguay
Paris – 28 June 1889.
This refers to the opening of the Uruguayan national pavilion at the Exposition Universelle in Paris in 1889.
Condition:
• Natural bronze patina
• Age wear consistent with period
• Ribbon present
• Minor surface marks
• For condition, please refer to the pictures, all dimensions are approx.
Historical and Collectible Significance:
The Paris Universal Exposition of 1889 was one of the most important world fairs of the 19th century and is famous for the construction of the Eiffel Tower.
Many countries presented national pavilions showcasing culture, industry and economic development. This medal commemorates the official inauguration of the pavilion of Uruguay, known formally as the Republica Oriental del Uruguay.
World fair medals from the 1889 Paris Exposition are widely collected by specialists in international exhibitions, Latin American history, and 19th-century commemorative medals.
Summary:
Original commemorative medal marking the inauguration of the Uruguay pavilion at the Paris Universal Exposition of 1889, engraved by E. Lemoine of Paris.