1886 La Chaux-de-Fonds
Actual 45 mm size by Edouard Durussel, Berne
Obverse.
Behold Helvetia, an allegorical figure embodying the spirit of the Confederation, resplendently arrayed in elegant flowing robes. Upon her dignified tunic armor, the beloved Cross is displayed, a symbol of her sacred unity and strength.
With a steadfast purpose and iron-willed leadership, she commands the respect of her cantons. Maternally, she towers over a youngling of the Confederacy, who reflects the boundless potential and pride of youth. Her vigilant gaze rests upon the horizon, and with a sure right arm, she points eastward, calling forth her champion to heed her summons and prepare for valorous deeds.
Her left hand leans gracefully upon the proud blazon of La Chaux-de-Fonds, a municipality of great renown. The coat of arms is finely detailed, tierced per fess in azure, displaying three mullets of five argent, alongside a hive of gold surrounded by seven bees, and adorned with a chequy pattern of argent and azure. This noble venue serves as the grand stage for the contest of marksmanship.
The youngling, immaculately attired in the finery of his heritage, stands ready, his tunic adorned with delicate lace. He listens intently to her declaration, poised in zealous concentration as he keenly focuses on calibrating his aim, guided by her watchful presence.
In the background, humble homes and watch-making workshops nestle together beneath the towering Swiss Jura Alps. These structures stand as silent witnesses to the great historical encounters that have unfolded in this cherished land, their stories woven into the very fabric of Helvetia’s proud legacy.
Inscriptions.
"NOS BRAS ET NOS CEOURS LA PATRIE!" - "Our Arms and Our Hearts, For Our Homeland"
Reverse.
Upon a couplet blazoned with ornate shields doth proudly shine the emblems of the Confederacy and Cantonal Neuchâtel, marking their steadfast partnership. This noble display is adorned with a pair of Perkussionsstutzer carbines, uniformly crossed in diagonal majesty, which symbolize the sharpshooter rifles bestowed upon the victors at the grand competition, where skill and valor are rightfully honored.
At the very center of this illustrious representation, the arms of Sankt Gallen are raised high, serving as a quintessential allegory for the cherished freedom that emerged from the tumult of the French Revolution. This heraldry recounts the tale of the peaceful Neuchâteloise revolution of eighteen forty-eight, a momentous transition from monarchy to the republic of the Canton, thus leading to the establishment of the Confederacy Federation, a union defined by strength, liberty, and shared aspirations.
Beneath these arms, the victorious goblet trophy doth rest, adorned with intertwined laurel branches, which symbolize the triumph of those who prevail. These branches represent the garlands worn upon the shoulders of the victors at the grand Schützenfest, a joyous celebration of marksmanship and pride, where the spirit of camaraderie and competition doth flourish in harmony.
Background.
“The city was founded in 1656. Due to the altitude (1,000 m [3,300 ft]) and the lack of water (porous sandstone underground) the land is ill suited to farming. Planning and buildings reflect the watch-making artisans need of rational organization.
Partially destroyed by a fire in 1794, La Chaux-de-Fonds was rebuilt following a grid street plan, which was and is still original among Swiss cities, the only exception being the easternmost section of the city, which was spared of fire.
This creates an interesting and obvious transition from the old section to the newer section. The roads in the original section are very narrow and winding, which then opens up to the grid pattern near the town square.
Economic activity accelerated in the 18th century with the development of the city's lace and watch-making industries. Its growth and prosperity is mainly bound up with the watch-making industry. It is the most important centre of the watch making industry in the area known as the Watch Valley.
La Chaux-de-Fonds is also a world-renowned centre of Art Nouveau.
In 2009, La Chaux-de-Fonds and Le Locle, its sister city, were jointly awarded UNESCO World Heritage status for their exceptional universal value.”
An “Art Nouveau” medal in remembrance of the rich heritage of the city La Chaux-de-Fonds back to its 18thcentury roots in the lace-making industry, as meticulously and intricately designed by the engraver onto the focus on the youngling shooter of this medal.