Appreciation Depreciation

Appreciation Depreciation

As a long time collector of long service medals I have observed a few trends. One of the most interesting trend setters is the H.J. Heinz Company founded in 1869. The company founder died in 1919 which eventually led to the H. J. Heinz long service medal in 1922 with his memorial portrait. This may have inspired the United States Steel Corporation to issue similar medals in 1924 after the death of their Chairman. The Heinz medal was a 14k gold fob issued for ten years service which was an exceptionally generous award for only ten years. Lady employees also were given a gold watch for 12 years while the men had to wait until their 20th anniversary for a gold watch. Any employee lasting 50 years would get a specially engraved gold watch. Over the years I have noticed the following down hill sliding trend of the medal sizes.

1925 14k gold 34.2mm 27.92 gr.
1935 14k gold 31.3mm 19.74 gr.
1939 14k gold 31.1mm 18.05 gr.
1944 14k gold 31.2mm 17.35 gr.
Medals reduced to charms :
1952 14k gold 17.5 x 12.7mm 3.66 gr. With two tiny diamond chips.
1965 10k gold 17 x 15.5mm 2.17 gr. Key stone shape.
I sure hope the employees get bonus checks for their employment anniversaries now!