Collector’s Note
Spanning the tense pre-war years and the dawn of the Second World War, this award represents the rugby community’s immediate response to disaster relief. The “Comforts Fund” was designed to provide warm clothing and vital essentials to soldiers and civilian victims, perfectly capturing the inherent nobility of the sport during times of global crisis. It stands as a powerful testament to how rugby unions mobilized compassion when the world needed it most.
Design & Craftsmanship
The obverse features a central high-relief scene depicting two rugby players framed within an octagonal border. The reverse is blank and includes the maker’s mark alongside hallmarks from the Birmingham Assay Office. Crafted as a round medal with an attachment loop, it utilizes a standard British sporting die from the early-to-mid 20th century.
“Struck by William Hair Hasler from sterling silver (.925), this lightweight award measures 28 mm in diameter, 1 mm in thickness, and weighs 6.4 grams.”
Historical Significance & Context
Issued between 1937 and 1940 by the Penarth Rugby Football Club (P.R.F.C.), this medal embodies the rugby community’s philanthropic mobilization during a period of escalating international crisis. Such charity and comfort funds leveraged local sports organizations to support relief efforts, demonstrating how the values of solidarity and aid were actively woven into the competitive fabric of pre-war British rugby.
Looking Ahead
The Rugby Coin Museum remains committed to expanding its international collection, documenting significant discoveries, and creating new opportunities for collaboration with museums, collectors, sporting organizations, and supporters worldwide.
