M071
Silver-plated Bronze, AU
50.89 mm (2”), 57.5 grams
HISTORY: In the 1952 Summer Olympics in Helsinki, Finland, Luxembourg fielded 44 competitors who took part in 32 events in nine sports. Josy (Joseph) Barthel (1927–1992) won a gold medal in the 1500-meter run, which to this day stands as the only Olympic gold taken home to Luxembourg. In his honor, the national stadium of Luxembourg has been named after him.
OBVERSE: An unknown sculptor, A. Hames, designed this medal with the image of Nike, the winged goddess of victory. She traditionally represents strength and speed in both war and peaceful competitions. In her right hand, she raises aloft the Olympic flame; in her left hand, she holds a laurel wreath. To the lower left is signed “A. HAMES sculpt ·”
REVERSE: “LUXEMBOURG~CHAMPION 1951-1952” encircles this medal, with a stadium façade at the bottom. Above center is a sprig of an oak branch with an acorn. Across the center is engraved “NATATION,” which is French for “swimming” (the action, skill, or art of swimming). This medal was probably awarded to a competitor in the Luxembourg Olympic trials.