M001
Bronze, circa 1916 (or possibly a later restrike)
30 mm (1-1/16”), 16 grams
HISTORY: Belgian engraver and medalist Joseph Fisch (1870–1916) created a number of medals before and during World War I. This medal, presented to Jacques Lafortune (François Jacques Florentin Lafortune) (1896–unknown) in 1948 for recognition of a 1st prize win in rifle shooting (possibly Olympic tryouts for which he entered that year) may be a restrike of the original since it was presented, and embossed, more than 30 years after his death.
OBVERSE: An older marksman mentors a young shooter. “J Fisch” signature at lower right.
REVERSE: “GRAND PRIX, JACQUES LAFORTUNE, 1948.” The Lafortune family was for several generations contestants in the Olympic Games, with 16 appearances over the years in both shooting and gymnastics. Hubert (1889–unknown), his older brother, was a silver medalist in team gymnastics in 1920.