1865 Schaffhausen

Actual 51 mm size by Hartwig, Offenbach am Main

Obverse.

Raising their right hands in the sacred Schwurhand, a gesture steeped in tradition and emblematic of the Rütlischwur, these noble figures stand resolute before the watchful gaze of history. Among them, three Landamänner, esteemed chiefs of their respective cantons, embody the spirit of unity and strength that birthed a nation.

First among them is Walter Fürst of Uri, a stalwart champion of liberty, his presence commanding respect as he represents the rugged spirit of his mountainous homeland. Beside him stands Werner Stauffacher of Schwyz, whose fierce loyalty and wisdom have long been pillars of the Confederacy. Lastly, there is Arnold von Melchtal of Unterwalden, a man of great valor, steadfast in his resolve to uphold the bonds of kinship that unite them all.

Together, these three noblemen are forever immortalized as the "Three Tells," a title that echoes through the ages, symbolizing their unwavering trust in one another and their shared commitment to everlasting unity. They stand as guardians of brotherhood, embodying the virtues of solidarity and courage that are essential to the very fabric of their society.

In this solemn moment, they are not merely oath takers; they are the architects of a new era, bound by fervent beliefs and a deep devotion to the foundational birth of the Old Swiss Confederacy. With hearts aflame and voices raised, they solemnly utter the virtuous principles and values enshrined in the legendary Rütlischwur Oath. This sacred pledge, born of trials and tribulations, signifies their determination to protect their freedoms and safeguard their way of life against all adversities.

Thus, the three chiefs stand united, a triumvirate of strength and conviction, their oath a testament to the enduring spirit of the Swiss people. As they raise their hands, they invoke the memory of their forebears and the sacred land they cherish, pledging their lives to uphold the ideals of liberty, justice, and fraternity that shall resonate throughout the annals of history.

Inscriptions.

"Wir Wollen Sein Ein Einig Volk Von Bruedern" - "We want to be one a united people of brothers"

"In Keiner Noth Uns Trennen Und Gefahr" - "In no need of us separating and danger"

Reverse.

In a noble display, there lies a couplet crossing of Perkussionsstutzer rifle-carbines, the esteemed choice of the sharpshooters, signifying both prowess and precision. These fine instruments of marksmanship are arranged in a grand manner, their polished barrels gleaming with the promise of glory. From the central cross, a pair of glorious horns of victory resound, their rich tones echoing the triumphs of those who have demonstrated extraordinary skill and valor upon the field of honor.

Intertwined with these symbols of conquest are elegant tassel cords, each strand a testament to the everlasting faith in the unity of brotherhood. This intricate design serves as a reminder that the strength of the Confederacy lies not only in individual skill but in the collective spirit of camaraderie that binds its members together.

Enwreathed around this resplendent assembly are flourishing branches of laurel and oak, emblematic of triumph and strength, respectively. The laurel, with its verdant leaves, signifies victory and honor, while the oak represents endurance and steadfastness. Together, these flora branches form a winner's garland, ready to be bestowed upon all champions of the shot, celebrating their achievements in the grand arena of marksmanship.

Thus, this noble arrangement, a harmonious blend of weapons, symbols, and nature, encapsulates the very essence of the spirit of competition and the cherished values of unity and brotherhood that thrive within the hearts of all who partake in the revered art of shooting.

Background.

The Rütlischwur the legendary oath taken at the foundation of the Old Swiss Confederacy by the representatives of the three founding forest cantons, Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden, traditionally dated to 1307. It is named for the site of the oath-taking, the Rütli, a meadow above Lake Uri near Seelisberg.

This oath of the mentioned three representatives namely Walter Fürst of Uri, Werner Stauffacher of Schwyz and Arnold von Melchtal of Unterwalden, took place in Walter Fürst's house in Altdorf and basically consists of a promise to meet again on 1 August on the Rütli meadow and to bring with them leading and brave men of the three cantons to decide upon a common action plan.

Rütlischwur German wording	Approximate English translation
Wir wollen sein ein einzig Volk von Brüdern, in keiner Not uns trennen und Gefahr. Wir wollen frei sein, wie die Väter waren, eher den Tod, als in der Knechtschaft leben. Wir wollen trauen auf den höchsten Gott und uns nicht fürchten vor der Macht der Menschen.	We want to be a single People of brethren, Never to part in danger nor distress. We want to be free, as our fathers were, And rather die than live in slavery. We want to trust in the one highest God And never be afraid of human power.

 

The founding fathers of the three oath takers or Eidgenossen during the 16th century became also known as "the Three Tells".

In memory of, the legendary Rütlischwur Oath of everlasting unity and brotherhood of men by the “Three Tells” - founding fathers of the Old Suisse Confederacy, namely the leader-representatives of the three forest cantons, Walter Fürst of Uri, Werner Stauffacher of Schwyz, and Arnold von Melchtal of Unterwalden.