1888 Interlaken
Actual 45 mm size by Hughes Bovy, E. Lossier, Genf
Obverse.
Adrian von Bubenberg, the illustrious hero of the Battle of Murten in the year of our Lord 1476, stands as a towering figure, embodying the valor and nobility of the Bernese knight. Renowned for his astute military command, he also bears the esteemed title of fair mayor, or Schultheiss, of Bern. Clad in armor that glimmers with the weight of history, he serves as the standard-bearer of the city’s famed blazon, which proudly features the striding bear—a symbol of strength and resilience.
Before him, the Swiss Cross stands as a radiant emblem, from which stylized rays emanate in all directions, representing the cherished virtues of independence and the free rights that the Confederation holds dear. These rays celebrate the unbreakable brotherhood that unites the cantons, illuminating the path of unity and collective strength.
With a commanding presence, Adrian’s right hand rests upon a shield adorned with the coat of arms of Aarmühle, a nod to the honorific heritage of olden Interlaken. This emblem is etched with pride upon his breastplate, a testament to his deep connection to the land and its storied past. His sword, though sheathed, remains ever at the ready, a silent promise that he shall rise to defend his people should danger threaten.
In the background, the majestic Bernese Alps rise to the heavens, their ancient peaks shrouded in mist, while the Jungfrau towers over the landscape as a sentinel of time. These silent witnesses to numerous fateful deeds and brave encounters stand firm, recalling the many battles fought and sacrifices made in the name of freedom and justice.
Nestled within the verdant Interlaken landscape lies the revered monastery of Augustinerchorherrenstift, a bastion of faith and knowledge, anchoring the fast-growing settlement that flourishes in its shadow. This hallowed ground serves not only as a spiritual refuge but also as a symbol of the rich cultural heritage that has blossomed in this fertile region.
Thus, Adrian von Bubenberg, in all his gallantry, stands as a beacon of hope and a guardian of liberty, ready to lead his people with wisdom and courage, while the enduring beauty of the Alps and the legacy of the monastery serve as a timeless backdrop to his noble purpose.
Inscriptions.
HIE BERN, HIE EIDGENOSSEN! - Here you are, Bern!
- Murten 1476
Reverse.
At the pinnacle of this distinguished emblem lies the triune blazon coat of arms, resplendent with symbolic significance. The topmost emblem features the venerable Cross, a steadfast declaration of brotherhood that binds the cantons within the Confederacy. This sacred symbol stands as a testament to the unity and shared purpose of the Swiss people, invoking a sense of collective strength and solidarity.
To the left of this central cross is the heraldic striding bear, a proud personification of the canton of Bern. This majestic creature, rendered with meticulous detail, embodies the valor and tenacity of Bern’s citizens, a fitting representation of their enduring spirit. The bear’s stance is both noble and fierce, a reminder of the rich heritage and history that the canton has fostered through the ages.
On the right, one finds the imposing crest of the great horned ram, emblematic of Aarmühle, which was later renamed Interlaken in the year 1891. The ram, with its impressive horns and regal posture, symbolizes strength and determination, further enriching the narrative of the coat of arms. Together, these two heraldic figures—the bear and the ram—encapsulate the pride and identity of their respective cantons, standing shoulder to shoulder in a harmonious display of unity.
Beneath this illustrious triune blazon, six prized sharpshooters’ Perkussionsstutzer Modell 1851 carbine-rifles lie crossed in a posture of solidarity. These finely crafted firearms, renowned for their precision and reliability, are emblematic of the skills and dedication of the marksmen who wield them. The rifles rest upon a victor’s garland, a lush and vibrant wreath that celebrates the achievements of the grand Schützenfest competition. This garland, adorned with laurel leaves, serves as a tribute to the champions of the festival, honoring their excellence in marksmanship and the camaraderie fostered through friendly competition.
Thus, the triune blazon coat of arms stands as a magnificent representation of unity, strength, and tradition, a rich tapestry woven from the histories of the cantons of Bern and Aarmühle. It is a symbol that captures the essence of the Confederacy, celebrating both the valor of its people and the cherished ideals that bind them together in a spirit of brotherhood and mutual respect.
Background.
"Adrian von Bubenberg was born as the son of Heinrich IV von Bubenberg, Schultheiss of Bern and lord of Spiez, whom he succeeded in 1465. He was greatly admired and portrayed in literature as the ideal of knightly virtue and of patriotism.
Numerous times before and after the Burgundy wars, he led Bernese negotiations with other cantons of the old Suisse Confederacy and foreign powers including Savoy, Burgundy, France, and Holy Roman Empire. But his heroic stature in Swiss history is due to his tenaciously staunch defiance against seemingly insurmountable odds during the siege of Murten.
He had been appointed commander of the city garrison in April 1476, and was vastly outnumbered 10:1 - He has 2'500 garrison defenders vs. 25'000 well-armed Burgundians.
The city was besieged for thirteen days in June by the troops of Charles de Bold, Duke of Burgundy, and Bubenberg astutely led and commanded the bulwark defenders repeatedly in the face of continuous fierce attacks, until finally relieved by confederate forces on 22 June, leading to the decisive crushing defeat of Charles. The entire enemy's army was vanquished completely — of which some 10,000 Burgundians were killed, hunted down along the shore and driven into the lake. As promised, no quarter was granted.
Since then, Murten celebrates the great victory every year on June 22."
In memory of the patriotic knightly deeds of Adrian von Bubenberg, and the very significant battle event of 22nd June 1476 - Siege of Morat, of his astute and staunch defense of the city garrison during the Burgundian Wars, against Charles the Bold, Duke of Burgundy.