FRANCE – Consulate Period (1803) Napoleon Bonaparte “À La Fortune Conservatrice” Bronze Medal – By Nicolas-Guy Brenet – Directed by Vivant Denon Exceptional Iridescent Rainbow Toned Patina – Superb Condition Offered here is an outstanding and historically important Napoleonic bronze medal, engraved by Nicolas-Guy Brenet under the artistic direction of Dominique-Vivant Denon, Master of the Paris Mint and father of modern French medallic art. This type was struck in Year 4 of Bonaparte’s rule (L’An 4) and commemorates the intervention of Fortune / Providence in protecting Napoleon from the failed assassination attempt on 24 December 1800 (Rue Saint-Nicaise). The symbolic reverse celebrates the destiny that preserved his life and ensured the consolidation of his political power. What makes this example exceptional is its spectacular, completely original rainbow toning — shimmering violet, blue, gold, rose, and pale aqua hues across both sides. Such iridescent surfaces are extremely rare for early Napoleonic bronzes and are intensely sought after by advanced collectors. ⸻ Obverse Classical left-facing portrait of Napoleon Bonaparte in youthful Roman style. Legend at base: • Brenet F. • Denon Direxit Crisp engraving, beautiful fields, and fully original patina. ⸻ Reverse Seated figure of Fortuna, leaning on a helm and holding the rudder of a ship — symbolizing divine protection and the safe guidance of the State. Above: radiant star. Legend: À LA FORTUNE CONSERVATRICE Exergue: L’AN 4 DE BONAPARTE An important allegory linked to Napoleon’s survival from attempted assassination. ⸻ Patina – Exceptional Rainbow Toning This medal exhibits one of the most beautiful surfaces we have ever seen on this type: • Violet, blue, rose, lemon-gold, silver-green iridescence • Completely natural and untouched • Premium eye appeal worthy of a top-tier collection A rare opportunity to acquire a medal with museum-quality color. Specifications • Metal: Bronze • Diameter: approx. XX mm (standard for this type) • Engraver: Nicolas-Guy Brenet • Artistic director: Vivant Denon • Date: 1803 / L’An 4 • Mint: Paris • Condition: Extremely Fine+ with exceptional rainbow toning Historical Importance This issue directly references the failed plot of the Rue Saint-Nicaise (1800) — an event that dramatically strengthened Napoleon’s political trajectory and contributed to his rise from First Consul to Emperor. Medals celebrating “Fortune Conservatrice” are considered among the most symbolically significant of the Consular era. Shipping Free Worldwide Shipping from Italy Tracked & protected packaging via Registered Mail. Collectors in the US, Europe, and Asia welcome. A Premium Napoleonic Medal with Irreplaceable Eye Appeal Examples with this level of original rainbow patina are extremely scarce. Perfect for collectors of: Napoleon • Early French medals • Brenet • Denon • Consular period • Rare patinas