French Barreau de Paris (Paris Bar Association) Gold Honor Medal by Fleury
Commemorative Medal / Award Medal · Yellow Gold (High Copper/Antique Alloy). It exhibits a deep, brassy yellow characteristic of traditional French alloys.
Purity: Likely 18K (750) or 22K (916) solid gold. In French medallic history, prestige medals like this for the Paris Bar are typically struck in high-purity gold or bronze-gilt; however, the patina and edge depth suggest a solid gold composition approximately 75-90% pure.
Type
Commemorative Medal / Award Medal
Purity
Likely 18K (750) or 22K (916) solid gold. In French medallic history, prestige medals like this for the Paris Bar are typically struck in high-purity gold or bronze-gilt; however, the patina and edge depth suggest a solid gold composition approximately 75-90% pure.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (High Copper/Antique Alloy). It exhibits a deep, brassy yellow characteristic of traditional French alloys.
Weight
40 to 60 grams (Approximately 1.3 to 1.9 troy oz). This is a heavy, thick-planchet medal intended for desktop display or ceremonial presentation.
Description
An exquisite French legal honor medal belonging to the Barreau de Paris. The obverse depicts a neoclassical female figure, an allegory of Law or Justice, standing beside a podium with law tablets. The text 'BARREAU DE PARIS' arcs across the field in a bold serif font. The high-relief strike creates a dramatic play of light and shadow, highlighting the drape of the robes and the stoic expression of the figure.
Key Features
High-relief neoclassical allegory; 'BARREAU DE PARIS' inscription; artist signature 'FLEURY'; thick planchet construction.
Color & Finish
Deep antique yellow with a natural age patina. The finish is a matte/satin medallic strike with high-relief polishing on the raised figures. Heavy toning is visible in the recessed areas (crevices of the robes).
Hallmarks & Stamps
Signed 'FLEURY F.' (Fecit) at the bottom for the artist. Edge markings likely include a 'Cornucopia' (for Monnaie de Paris) and metal stamps like 'OR' or '1' (symbolizing 18K) which are standard for French official medals.
Dimensions Estimate
35mm to 50mm in diameter; 3mm to 5mm in thickness. It is significantly larger and thicker than a standard currency coin.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The medal relies on intricate metal relief and classical architectural design.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable. No suspension loop is visible; this piece is designed as a table medal/ingot style award.
Chain & Links
Smooth, non-reeded edge typical of French high-art medals, usually featuring the assay markings stamped directly into the rim.
Craftsmanship Details
Struck using a heavy hydraulic press at the Paris Mint. The detail in the 'Fleury' engraving shows exceptional precision in the fabric texture and the perspective of the base pedestal.
Authentication Indicators
The 'FLEURY' signature is consistent with known Barreau medals. The coloration of the toning suggests a high metal density and genuine oxidation of a gold alloy rather than gold-plating flaking.
Origin & Maker
France, likely struck by the Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint). Art by Fleury, a noted French medalist.
Era & Period
Late 19th Century to Early 20th Century (Belle Époque style). The neoclassical allegory of Justice and the engraving style of Fleury are indicative of the late 1800s.
Age Estimate
Circa 1880–1920 based on the typography and the history of the Barreau de Paris professional awards.
Cultural Significance
Represents the prestige and historical weight of the French legal system. Medals like this were symbols of vocational excellence and the high status of lawyers in French society during the Third Republic.
Condition Notes
Very Good/Fine. Visible surface scratches (bag marks) and light dings on the rim. Significant darkening/patina in the fields which adds to its antique character.
Value Estimate
Primarily valued for its gold content plus a 15-25% numismatic premium. If confirmed 18K and 50g, the melt value would be approx. $3,000+, with a collector value reaching $3,800-$4,500 depending on provenance.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish; the patina is essential to the value of antique medals. Store in a mahogany presentation box or a PVC-free capsule to prevent further rim dings.
Similar Items
Bronze-gilt versions of the same medal (much lighter and yellow-brassy); Silver (Argent) editions; or the 100 Francs ‘Génie’ coin which shares similar neoclassical themes.
Interesting Facts
The Paris Bar (Barreau de Paris) is one of the oldest and most prestigious legal associations in the world, dating back centuries. Gold versions of these medals were typically reserved for the Bâtonnier (head of the bar) or for significant career achievements.