The Wahrmann Medal Cast for and Awarded to Ottó Titusz Bláthy

Abstract

Over the course of the past two centuries, or in other words, roughly since its founding, the Hungarian Academy of Sciences has made a substantial contribution to the advancement of engineering sciences. Rewarding our scientists, engineers, and experts for their contributions is a crucial aspect of this endeavor. The Wahrmann Prize, created in 1897, is the most esteemed academic honor in the field of trade and industry. Patron Mór Wahrmann was a prominent politician and trader during the dualist era. In his will, he bequeathed a sizeable amount of money for public use, some of which was managed as a foundation by the Hungarian Academy of Sciences. Between 1897 and 1933, the prize was given out every three years, and it came with a monetary grant or its equivalent in the form of a personalized, huge gold medal. Only four recipients requested the medal; the only one we know of was given to renowned mechanical engineer Ottó Titusz Bláthy in 1909. The Hungarian National Museum purchased this unique medal in 2021.