Rare winner’s medal diploma from the London 1908 Olympics, issued to English long-distance runner William Coales (1886–1960) who won a gold medal as a member of Great Britain men's 3-mile team. The beautifully illustrated diploma, 24.5 x 19.5, features a drawing by English artist Bernard Partridge of the Goddess Nike descending a platform and holding a laurel wreath crown as an octet of athletes and Roman figures observe. The lower portion bears printed and handwritten text: “To W. Coates, Winner of First Prize, For 3 Mile Team Race, At the Olympic Games London 1908.” Signed below by William Grenfell, 1st Baron Desborough, as president of the British Olympic Council. Framed to a slightly larger size and in very good to fine condition, with a couple of creases, areas of toning, and dampstaining to the lower left corner.
