PASTEUR: 1939 - Rare maiden voyage medallion

Compagnie de Navigation Sud Atlantique: What is rarer than a maiden voyage medallion for the ill-fated L'ATLANTIQUE OF 1931? A medallion for the PASTEUR of 1939, a ship that never carried a transatlantic passenger until almost two decades after her entry into service. The 2.75" diameter medallion was struck by the Paris Mint in bronze. One side features a detailed portrait of the liner, complete with oversized funnel and a date of 1939. On the other a bust of Louis Pasteur with vignettes on either side symbolizing Pasteur's great scientific advancements. One is of a mother with a newborn representing his breakthrough with vaccines. The other is a farmer with cattle representing his invention of pasteurization. The medallion is signed F. Bazir. Francois Bazin (1897-1956) was a French sculptor whose work ranged from monumental public works to intricate car mascots for Hispano Suiza.  French civilian passengers had just one opportunity to purchase this souvenir as invited guests on a pre-