Impressive collection of four medals from the 1955 Pan American Games held in Mexico City, Mexico, each awarded to legendary American swimmer Jimmy McLane, who officially retired from competition following his participation at the 2nd Annual Pan American Games. At the event, McLane earned first place awards in the 400-meter freestyle, the 1500-meter freestyle, and the 4 x 200-meter free relay.
The collection includes three gold winner’s medals and one silver participation medal. Each gold medal is gilt silver, 68 gm, 51 mm, with the front bearing a male torchbearer with raised text, “Mexico, 1955,” and the reverse featuring a raised image of the Estadio Olímpico Universitario with upper torch and text in Spanish: “Primer Lugar [First Place]” and “Segundos Juegos Deportivos Panamericanos.” The silver participation medal, 67 gm, 51 mm, features an embossed Mesoamerican warrior with text, “Mexico, 1955,” and the reverse is identical to the winner’s medals, with the exception of the upper text: “Participante.” All medals bear instances of darkening and light overall wear. Accompanied by a photo of McLane standing triumphant on an Olympic winner’s podium.
A rare medal collection from the historic second Pan American Games, one that is made all the more desirable given its connection to a true pioneer of American swimming.
From The Jimmy McLane Collection.
