This bronze plaquette, minted by the Monnaie de Paris in 1972, commemorates the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), a leading global organization dedicated to promoting motor sports and advocating for safe, sustainable, and accessible mobility worldwide. Founded in 1904, the FIA has played a pivotal role in shaping international motor sport regulations and championing road safety initiatives.
Specifications:
- Obverse Design: Features a circular emblem of the globe stamped with "F.I.A." (Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile), encircled by laurel branches symbolizing victory and honor. The legend is presented in four lines: "FÉDÉRATION INTERNATIONALE DE L'AUTOMOBILE."
- Reverse Design: Smooth ("LISSE"), providing space for potential inscriptions or awards.
- Composition: Bronze
- Dimensions: 79 x 59 mm (rectangular plaquette)
- Weight: 201.23 g
- Edge: Smooth, inscribed with "+ 1972 + corne BRONZE," indicating the year of issue and the bronze material.
- Orientation: 12 h (medal alignment)
- Punchmark: Corne BRONZE, confirming minting at the Monnaie de Paris
Condition:
- Grade: AU (About Uncirculated)
- Comments: The plaquette exhibits a heterogeneous patina with visible impacts and scratches, suggesting handling or storage wear.
Historical Background: The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) is known for its dual roles in governing the global motor sport sector (notably Formula 1) and advocating for road safety and sustainable mobility. The organization brings together 244 member organizations from 146 countries, representing over 80 million road users and their families.
Significance: This plaquette is a valuable collector's item, reflecting the history and influence of the FIA. It appeals not only to numismatists but also to enthusiasts of automotive history and motor sports. The artistic design, combined with the historical importance of the organization, makes this piece a testament to the enduring impact of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile on global mobility and motor sport standards.
