1837 French Gilt Commemorative Medal, Conseil de l'Ordre - M. PH. DUPIN
Commemorative Medal / Numismatic Award · Yellow Gold plating over a base metal alloy, typically bronze or copper for 19th-century French medals.
Purity: Gilt / Gold-Plated (likely over Bronze or Silver). Based on surface wear and color, it is not solid gold but 'Vermeil' or heavy gilding.
Type
Commemorative Medal / Numismatic Award
Purity
Gilt / Gold-Plated (likely over Bronze or Silver). Based on surface wear and color, it is not solid gold but 'Vermeil' or heavy gilding.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold plating over a base metal alloy, typically bronze or copper for 19th-century French medals.
Weight
Estimated between 40g and 60g depending on thickness and internal composition.
Description
An elegant 19th-century French commemorative medal issued to André-Marie-Jean-Jacques Philippe Dupin, a famous lawyer and politician. The face features a laurel wreath surrounding a central oval frame with the inscription 'CONSEIL DE L'ORDRE / M. PH. DUPIN / ÉLECTION DE 1837'.
Key Features
Hand-engraved personal inscription, high-relief laurel wreath, and historical association with the French legal 'Barre' (Consal de l'Ordre).
Color & Finish
Deep warm yellow gold color with a semi-matte finish in recessed areas and high-polish on raised letters. Visible brassy oxidation in worn crevices.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Presence of a small 'poinçon' (mint mark) likely on the rim (tranche), common for French medals of the Monnaie de Paris (often a cornucopia or 'OR/ARGENT').
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 45mm to 55mm in diameter; standard size for French administrative medals of the 19th century.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The item is purely metallic/numismatic with high-relief die-struck decorative elements.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; however, the smooth unreeded edge suggests it was meant for a presentation case or a desk display rather than being worn.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The edge is likely a 'tranche lisse' (smooth edge) common for commemorative strikes.
Craftsmanship Details
Die-struck with high-pressure machinery of the era, showcasing the precision of French neo-classical engraving styles.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic 19th-century typography, correct French spelling/accents, and era-appropriate laurel leaf design construction.
Origin & Maker
France, likely struck by the Monnaie de Paris for the Conseil de l'Ordre (Bar Council).
Era & Period
July Monarchy (1830–1848), specifically dated 1837 based on the inscription.
Age Estimate
Circa 1837; early 19th-century production.
Cultural Significance
Represents the formalization and prestige of the French legal system and the Bar Council during the reign of Louis-Philippe I.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VF-XF). Minor surface scratches and soft wear on high points; gilding remains mostly intact but shows darkening in the texture.
Value Estimate
Resale value $150–$350 USD. Value is based on historical provenance and numismatic rarity rather than intrinsic gold melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Do not polish with abrasives as it will remove the gold plating. Clean only with a soft damp microfiber cloth; store in an archival-safe air-tight capsule.
Similar Items
Legion of Honor medals (different shape) or Monnaie de Paris historical tokens representing other 19th-century French ministers.
Interesting Facts
The recipient, Philippe Dupin, was a notable French legal figure whose brother was also a famous statesman; medals of this era are highly collected by legal historians.