1887 Genève
Actual 45 mm size by H. Bovy, C. Richard, E. Lossier, Geneva
Obverse.
The plate-armored Musketeer, a vigilant sentry-guard, doth stand with unwavering resolve, his slender rapier blade securely sheathed within its scabbard, whilst a sturdy arquebus rests firmly in his grasp. This sentinel, hearkening back to the illustrious hero-savior Isaac Mercier, keeps a watchful eye upon the ramparts of the Old City walls, unfailingly devoted to safeguarding the treasured independence and faithful liberties of the great city of Geneva.
Before him lies a prominent bulwark cannon, its imposing sights trained outward, serving as a poignant reminder of the legendary defense mounted by the brave citizens who valiantly repelled the infamous L'Escalade, a clandestine assault launched by the House of Savoy in the year of our Lord 1602. That fateful day shall never be forgotten, for it was a moment when their fragile freedom was perilously close to being snatched away by the forces of tyranny, leaving an indelible mark upon the annals of their storied history.
Adorning his breastplate is the beveled blazon of the coat-of-arms, which doth depict the quondam origins of this noble city. The Imperial Eagle and the key of St. Peter proudly symbolize, since the 15th century, Geneva's esteemed status as Reichsstadt and its role as an Episcopal seat, respectively. These emblems stand testament to the city’s historical significance, embodying its long-standing traditions and the weight of its legacy.
In the backdrop, the gothic Saint Pierre Cathedral rises majestically, a revered medieval seat of the prince-bishop of the Diocese of Geneva since the 4th century. This venerable edifice doth bear silent witness to the multifarious episodes that have unfolded across her exalted and illustrious history, each stone imbued with tales of valor, conflict, and resolution.
In ardent and passionate defense of her sovereignty, as the formidable House of Savoy cast a long shadow of threat over her independence, Geneva took measures to fortify her position. In the year 1519, she allied herself with Fribourg; in 1526, she joined forces with Bern; and in 1584, she formed a steadfast alliance with the Swiss cantons, thereby enhancing her defenses against encroaching powers. Ultimately, in the year of our Lord 1814, the Canton of Geneva was formally embraced within the venerable fold of the Suisse Confederation, securing its rightful place among the united cantons and ensuring the preservation of its cherished liberties for generations to come. Thus, the legacy of Geneva endures, a testament to resilience and unity in the face of adversity.
Inscriptions.
“TOUT POUR LA PATRIE” - “All for the Motherland”
Reverse.
Upon the heraldic coat of arms of the Confederacy, displayed prominently on the blazon of Geneva, one doth behold a crowned Imperial Eagle, majestic and resplendent, arising with outstretched wings. This noble creature, symbolizing strength and sovereignty, doth extend its talons with readiness, embodying the vigilance and might of the Confederacy. Beside it rests the key of St. Peter, a potent emblem signifying the keeper of the “keys of heaven,” representing not only spiritual authority but also the guiding principles of faith and governance that have shaped this esteemed city.
Encircling these illustrious symbols are the oak and laurel branches, intertwined in harmonious splendor. The oak, a venerable tree known for its steadfastness and endurance, symbolizes the strength of the Confederacy, while the laurel, a timeless emblem of victory, honors those who have triumphed in noble endeavors. The branches together signify the unity of strength and honor, celebrating the achievements of those who stand resolute in defense of their values.
From the center of this grand coat of arms emanate stylized rays, brilliant and radiant, diverging in all directions like the sun's golden light. These rays serve as a tribute to the triumphant victors of the esteemed shooting competition, illuminating their prowess and skill with each resplendent beam. Each ray, vibrant and full of life, embodies the glory of those who have emerged victorious, a testament to their dedication and hard-fought triumphs.
Thus, the heraldic coat of arms of the Confederacy, adorned with these powerful symbols and radiant elements, stands as a beacon of pride for Geneva, encapsulating its rich heritage, the valor of its citizens, and the enduring spirit of unity that binds the cantons together in a common cause. It is a testament to the strength of their collective identity, a reminder of the values they hold dear, and a celebration of the glorious achievements that have shaped their storied past.
Inscriptions.
“UN POUR TOUS, TOUS POUR UN” – “All for One, One for All”
Background.
“On December 11 and December 12 (Old Style) 1602—the darkest night of the year—the forces of the Duke of Savoy, under the command of the seigneur d'Albigny, and those of Charles Emmanuel's brother-in-law, Philip III of Spain, launched an attack on the city-state of Geneva. The troops marched along the Arve River at night and assembled at Plainpalais, just outside the walls of Geneva, at 2 o'clock in the morning.
The original plan was to send in a group of commandos (300) to open the city gate and let the other troops in. The Geneva citizens defeated the invaders by preventing them from scaling the wall using cannon fire, and by fighting in the streets against the few who managed to climb over (a climb in French is an escalade). The alarm was raised, the church bells were rung and the Genevese were alerted.
The night guard Isaac Mercier succeeded in cutting the rope holding up the portcullis, thus foiling the plan to open the main city gate. The populace fought alongside their town militia and the duke's 2000-plus mercenaries were defeated. The Genevese lost 18 men in the fighting; the Savoyards suffered 54 fatalities and the troops had to retreat. Thirteen invaders who had been taken prisoner, including several well-born gentlemen, were summarily hanged the following day as brigands, since they could not be treated as prisoners of war, peace having been repeatedly sworn on the part of Savoy.
After the defeat (and after a retaliation campaign by Geneva against Savoy, known as the contre-Escalade, that failed to meet its objectives), the Duke of Savoy accepted a lasting peace, sealed by the Treaty of St. Julien of July 12, 1603. The story of L'Escalade is told in a song called "Cé qu'è l'ainô", written in a Franco-Provençal dialect around 1603 by an unknown author. The song has become the "national" anthem of Geneva.“
In memory of the great event l'Escalade of 1602, where Genevadefenders and citizens fought fearlessly, and put to flight the invading forces of House of Savoy who threatened the free city’s liberty and sovereignty.