France. Medal 1805 France Deaf-Mutes Medal – Charles-Michel de l’Épée & Pius VII Rainbow Toned (No reserve price)

1805 France Deaf-Mutes Medal – Charles-Michel de l’Épée & Pius VII Rainbow Toned


FRANCE – First Empire (Napoleon I)

Charles-Michel de l’Épée & Pope Pius VII

Paris, 1805 – Bronze Medal – 42 mm

Engraver: B. Du Vivier F.


Offered here is an exceptionally beautiful and historically important French bronze medal struck in 1805 to commemorate the visit of Pope Pius VII to the Paris Institution des Sourds-Muets (School for the Deaf), founded on the educational principles of Charles-Michel de l’Épée, considered the father of modern sign language.


Your example displays an extraordinary iridescent rainbow patina, with rings of blue, gold, violet, ice-grey, and rose, surrounding the portraits and inscriptions like a natural halo.

This color effect is rare and highly coveted by advanced collectors of early French medals.

Obverse


Legend: CH. MICHEL DE L’ÉPÉE born in Versailles 1712, died in Paris 1789

Superb portrait of Charles-Michel de l’Épée facing left, with finely engraved hair and clerical robes.

Signature below: B. DU VIVIER F.


The patina on the obverse shows a stunning rainbow aureole, enhancing the engraving dramatically.


Reverse


Ten-line inscription:

Offer

In memory of the bridge

PIE VII

By the administrators

OF THE INSTITUTION

DES SOURDS-MUTS

LORS DE LA VISITE

DE SA SAINTETÉ

PARIS 23 FEBRUARY

1805


This reverse is historically significant: the medal was offered to Pope Pius VII by the administrators of the Deaf-Mute Institution during his solemn visit.

Again, the toning is exceptional, with deep iridescence not normally seen on this type.


Historical importance


Charles-Michel de l'Épée revolutionized the education of the deaf and is a foundational figure in modern sign language.

The visit of Pope Pius VII in 1805, during his delicate relationship with Napoleon, elevated the prestige of the institution and resulted in this rare official medal.


It is prized by collectors in:

• Napoleonic medals

Papal medals

• Early educational history

• Medals engraved by Du Vivier

• Patina collectors


This example ranks among the finest known due to its spectacular surfaces.


Condition


• Magnificent rainbow iridescent patina

• Superb surfaces with original mint texture

• Sharp portrait and legends

• No cleaning, no damage, premium eye appeal

• A connoisseur-level medal


Exactly as photographed.