French Hexagonal Commemorative Medal of the Anzin Coal Company (Jetone d'Anzin)
Commemorative Jetone / Token · Likely Silver-plated bronze or White Gold based on color, though the heavy patina suggests a base metal construction like silver or brass.
Purity: Historically these items were struck in Bronze, Silver, or Gold (typically 18K or 22K); however, the visual characteristics suggest a non-gold alloy.
Type
Commemorative Jetone / Token
Purity
Historically these items were struck in Bronze, Silver, or Gold (typically 18K or 22K); however, the visual characteristics suggest a non-gold alloy.
Gold Type
Likely Silver-plated bronze or White Gold based on color, though the heavy patina suggests a base metal construction like silver or brass.
Weight
25-30 grams depending on thickness and alloy composition.
Description
A rare hexagonal commemorative token celebrating the Anzin Coal Company. The obverse features a cartouche at the bottom listing Desandrouin, Taffin, and Casimir Perier, surrounded by the names of company directors and historical dates marking the development of the Valenciennes coal basin.
Key Features
Unique hexagonal shape; lists geographical concessions including Raismes, Fresnes, and Vieux-Conde; highlights the 1717 founding and 1826 expansion.
Color & Finish
Aged metallic grey with significant dark patina/toning in recessed areas and moderate surface oxidation.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Engraved text including names A. TAFFIN, J. PERIER, J. RENARD, HOCQUART, DEVILLE DEUIL, and dates 1717-1826.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 35mm to 40mm in diameter; 2-3mm in thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; relief-struck metal with architectural and typographic detailing.
Clasp & Closure
Solid edge; no clasp mechanism present.
Chain & Links
N/A; flat, non-reeded hexagonal edges.
Craftsmanship Details
Struck by a coin die; features deep engraving, crisp planar geometry, and centered lettering consistent with 19th-century French minting standards.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of historical names with French industrial records; period-correct sans-serif and slab-serif typography.
Origin & Maker
Anzin, France; The Compagnie des mines d'Anzin.
Era & Period
French Restoration period (circa 1826-1830) based on commemorative dates.
Age Estimate
Likely produced circa 1826 to celebrate the company's historical milestones and founders.
Cultural Significance
Represents the dawn of the Industrial Revolution in France and the consolidation of mining interests into powerful shareholding companies.
Condition Notes
Very Good; significant surface wear and handling scratches, deep toning around lettering, original strike details remain legible.
Value Estimate
If Bronze: $50-$150; If Silver: $200-$400; If Gold: dependent on melt weight plus 20-30% numismatic premium. Value is primarily historical/collectible.
Care & Maintenance
Do not polish; preserve original patina. Store in an acid-free numismatic flip or felt-lined tray away from moisture.
Similar Items
French Masonic jetones, 19th-century Chamber of Commerce tokens, or Bronze medals by Barre or Dupré.
Interesting Facts
The Anzin Coal Company was one of the first major industrial companies in France and served as the inspiration for Emile Zola's famous novel 'Germinal'.