M309
Bronze, AU
50 mm (1-15/16”), 50 grams
HISTORY: Belgium sculptor Josue Dupon (1864–1935) was commissioned to create this powerful medal to commemorate the centennial of Belgique’s (Belgium’s) independence.
OBVERSE: We see a muscular young man pulling back on a lever in what seems to be a mine. The exergue frames the word “L’EFFORT.” The signature of “Josue Dupon” is incused to the right of the youth’s lower back.
REVERSE: Two cornucopia hang from the winged helmet of the Roman god Mercury, symbol of medicine, prosperity, and industry. Below is a snaked caduceus intertwined with the spokes of an industrial wheel. The design is quite possibly a standard reverse used by the graveur. This medal was presented by SOCIÉTÉ BELGE DES INGÉNIÉURS ET DES INDUSTRIELS, 1830‒1930, on 8-11-1930. “JD” initials on the rim at 4 o’clock.
EDGE: Smooth, with “J. I UNSUN” engraved at 6 o’clock (Detail 1).
