France – “Passage du Po, de l’Adda et du Mincio” Medal, Year IV (1796) – Silvered bronze – Army of Italy – Paris Mint Description (English): Magnificent and historically important silvered bronze medal commemorating the brilliant victories of the French Army of Italy during the 1796 campaign under General Bonaparte, celebrating the crossings of the Po, Adda and Mincio Rivers. Obverse: Depiction of the French army crossing a bridge under fire, led by a mounted officer with sword raised. Soldiers and swimmers are seen fording the river below. Legend: PASSAGE DU PO DE L’ADDA ET DU MINCIO – AN 4 REP. Engraver’s signature S.F. (possibly Samuel Fécit). Reverse: Inscription within a simple circle: A L’ARMÉE D’ITALIE – LA PATRIE RECONNAISSANTE – LOI DU 24 PRAIRIAL AN 4me REP. (“To the Army of Italy – The Grateful Homeland – Law of 24 Prairial, Year IV of the Republic”). Specifications: • Metal: Silvered bronze (argenté) • Diameter: 40 mm • Weight: approx. 36–38 g • Mint: Paris, Monnaie de Paris • Reference: Bramsen 19; Julius 54; Hennin 126 • Condition: Extremely Fine, beautiful silvered surface with light iridescent toning and superb detail retention. Historical Context: This medal honors the victories of Napoleon Bonaparte’s Army of Italy in 1796, notably the bold river crossings that led to decisive French victories at Lodi, Borghetto, and Arcole — events that established Bonaparte’s fame across Europe.