Medal Test on lead

Lead Napoleon departure

Emperor January 25, 1814

50.58g

39’34mm

This coin is a French historical medal commemorating the Defense of the Empire and the departure of Emperor Napoleon I for the French campaign.

CGB

Characteristics of the medal

Obverse (Face visible): The uniform bust in profile of Emperor Napoleon I turned to the right.

Circular caption: "DEFENSE OF THE EMPIRE".

Exergue (Text at the bottom): "THE EMPEROR LEAVES PARIS ON THE XXV. JANUARY MDCCCXIV" (January 25, 1814).

Historical context: This medal marks the beginning of the French Campaign of 1814, when Napoleon left the capital to try to repel the invasion of the coalition troops (Russians, Prussians, Austrians).

CGB

Condition and nature of the object

The copy in the photo shows the typical features of a test or a lead cast iron. This very soft metal crushes and scratches easily, which explains the many streaks, impacts and dull appearance of the reliefs as well as the edges of the medal. The official collection mints of the Monnaie de Paris were generally made of bronze or silver with much sharper reliefs and a smooth edge.

Tokens and Medals

Napoleon I and Marie-Louise, defense of the Empire 1814 - Tokens and Medals