VERNON, Dai (David Frederick Wingfield Verner, 1894 – 1992). Dai Vernon’s Sphinx Medal. New York, 1948. Cast sterling silver medallion bearing the head of the Sphinx on the obverse; plain reverse. Hanging from a red silk ribbon with sterling silver pinback bearing text “The Sphinx Award.” Presented to Dai Vernon in 1948 for his contribution to what was then the art’s most influential periodical. Medallion diameter 1 1/8”; overall dimensions 2 x 4”. MT308. This example is wider than the other two Sphinx medals we have offered. The award was obtained from the Vernon family by the present owner and is accompanied by a letter of provenance tracing its history. Sold together with a copy of the magazine in which Vernon’s prize-winning contribution appeared.
The Sphinx Medal was sculpted by Mark Federson and presented annually by John Mulholland, editor of The Sphinx magazine beginning in 1934. Recipients were selected by an “unprejudiced committee.” Winners included Okito, Birch, John Booth, Matt Schulien, Karrell Fox, Dr. Daley, Paul Rosini, Levante, and Walter Gibson. A total of 32 medals were awarded between 1934 and 1952. As Mulholland wrote, the award was made to Vernon, “for the close-up effect classification. This award is for his effect, Gemini Cards, described on page 267 of the November 1947 issue. The judges made this selection because of the audience appeal in the effect itself, and for the cleverness and subtlety of the method. Mr. Vernon makes his home in New York City. Honorable mention is given to Slydini for his effect, Paper Balls to Hat, described on page 341 of the January 1948 issue. Honorable mention also is given to S. Leo Horowitz for his effect, Mohammed Bey Coin Vanish, described on page 303 of the December 1947 issue.”