In 2022, Monnaie de Paris is launching a new collection of mini-medals in an opaque pouch on the most famous Gaul! Each pouch contains a randomly colored and yeardated mini-medal from the new Asterix collection.This collector's item is made up of ...
In 2022, Monnaie de Paris is launching a new collection of mini-medals in an opaque pouch on the most famous Gaul! Each pouch contains a randomly colored and yeardated mini-medal from the new Asterix collection.
This collector's item is made up of 13 cavities that hold the 12 mini-medals from the Asterix collection as well as the bonus mini-medal "Magic Potion".
This 13th mini-medal rewards the Gauls who have managed to find all 12 mini-medals in the collection.
After the launch of the first collection celebrating the release of the new album Asterix and the Griffin in 2021, the Monnaie de Paris continues to honour one of the emblematic figures of the French comic strip at the heart of this new innovative monetary collection.
Translating comic book characters is an interesting but perilous exercise. The transition from comic strip to volume must faithfully transcribe the clear line of Uderzo’s and Conrad‘s work. These medals are the faithful representation of a graphic line proper to the french artist, it is a tribute in three dimensions paid by the craftsmen of Monnaie de Paris to the universe of Asterix.
Engraver word
Our craftman
THE ENAMELLER
Our creations are enamelled using a rare technique known as grand feu enamelling. Another workshop sends the enameller a decoration, piece of jewellery or struck medal with hollow spaces on its surface. Using a dip pen, needle or brush, the enameller fills these hollows with enamel, which they have prepared themselves. The fixing of the variously coloured enamel powders is controlled by short, successive firings at 900 degrees.
THE MEDAL MINTER
The medal minter transforms a blank into a medal, alternating between striking to bring out the relief and annealing to return the metal to a more malleable state. The blank is struck as many times as necessary, depending on the diameter, depth and detail of the engraving. Finally, surface treatments are applied to enhance the finished piece
THE ENGRAVER
Trained at the best schools, they have the years of experience behind them necessary to master all aspects of the craft. Using industrial oil-based modelling clay and working from a design executed freehand or with CAD software, they skilfully fashion a low relief model in order to enhance the engraving and the way it catches the light. They work alternately with concave and convex plaster moulds until satisfied they have achieved the best 3D rendering of the design.
THE MINTER
The first minters began to ply their trade in France when striking with a hammer appeared in the 4th century BC. Nowdays, minsters use press instead of a hammer. Their knowledge of dies, engraving and metals, and their expertise - passed seamlessly down from one generation to the next for centuries - guarantees the excellence of their work.
