The obverse
of the coin features a portrait of Gustave Eiffel posing in front of an arch of
the tower that bears his name. The portrait has been drawn in such a way that
the features of the face, the hair and the clothes of the man are made of
riv...
Eiffel - Centenary of his death 100€ silver coin Circulating quality yeardate 2023
€100.00
Description
The obverse
of the coin features a portrait of Gustave Eiffel posing in front of an arch of
the tower that bears his name. The portrait has been drawn in such a way that
the features of the face, the hair and the clothes of the man are made of
rivets, as if Gustave Eiffel were one with the metal structures that he
imagined throughout his life. The yeardate 2023 is engraved as studded metal
plates next to the portrait.
The reverse
of the coin shows the face value surrounded by two branches, one
of oak, the other of laurel, which evoke the Euro symbol. The entire reverse
design is framed by an assembly of lines representing the Hexagon.
The Collection
In 2023, to mark the centenary of Gustave Eiffel's death, Monnaie de Paris pay tribute to him through a collection of coins highlighting the man and his work.
The idea of mixing metal rivets with the portrait of Gustave Eiffel came from the heart of his iconic work, the Eiffel Tower itself. The riveted metal structure, essential to the Tower's structure, symbolises the solidity, strength and ingenuity of his work. In this way, I wanted to represent the profound link between the man and his work. This collection is imbued with respect and admiration for the ingenuity of this exceptional man, who elevated architecture to an art form.
Engraver word
Our craftman
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.