Watch List notes:

SPAIN. Barcelona. Cholera Epidemic Bronze Medal of Merit, 1885. CHOICE UNCIRCULATED.
Crusafont-728a. Diameter: 53mm; Weight: 89.85 gms. Issued for good deeds done during the public health crisis. Obverse: Female caregiver standing slightly left, head right, cradling crying child and tending to others who are sick in their beds; to upper right, small figure of the Grim Reaper flying right, carrying scythe and the life of one child with him; Reverse: Legend and date in nine lines within wreath. Edge: Plain. Deep brown surfaces, with great relief on the obverse; a minor rim bruise is noted merely for completeness. An interesting type with extremely current relevance.

An infectious disease that is extremely dangerous, cholera is caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, encountered when individuals ingest food or water contaminated by the bacterium. Poor hygiene can lead to outbreaks, as those infected can pass along the contagion through their excrement. Prior to a more modern understanding of diseases, these outbreaks could last some time and be difficult to control. Such was the case as for this medal of merit for Barcelona in 1885. This was part of the fifth pandemic of cholera, lasting from 1881 to 1896. The first occurred from 1817 to 1824, with the rise of global trade and a more interconnected world causing recurring rounds throughout the 19th century.

Estimate: $100 - $200