This bronze medal, minted by the Monnaie de Paris in 1971, celebrates the 9th Salon International de la Chimie (International Chemistry Fair), held from April 19 to 24 at CNIT (Centre des Nouvelles Industries et Technologies) in Paris. The fair brought together professionals, researchers, and innovators from the global chemical industry to share advancements, technologies, and trends that shaped the future of chemistry.
Specifications:
- Obverse Design: The obverse features a highly stylized representation of chemical motifs, incorporating elements that symbolize the complexity and innovation of the chemical sciences. The design is signed by "LERY," along with the Monnaie de Paris symbol.
- Reverse Design: The reverse displays the legend "9ème SALON INTERNATIONAL DE LA CHIMIE // 19 AU 24 AVRIL 1971 // CNIT" in six horizontal lines, providing a clear and formal recognition of the event and its historical context.
- Composition: Bronze
- Diameter: 58.5 mm
- Weight: 100.5 g
- Edge: Smooth ("lisse"), marked with "1971 + corne BRONZE," indicating the date of issue and the bronze composition.
- Orientation: 12 h (medal alignment)
- Punchmark: Corne BRONZE, verifying minting at the Monnaie de Paris
Condition:
- Grade: AU (About Uncirculated)
- Comments: The medal features a heterogeneous patina with minor signs of wear and friction, demonstrating careful preservation. The artistic details remain well-defined, enhancing its visual appeal.
Historical Context: The International Chemistry Fair served as a major platform for presenting breakthroughs in chemical engineering, materials science, and industrial chemistry. Held at the iconic CNIT building in La Défense, Paris, the event attracted industry leaders, academic researchers, and policymakers. The fair underscored France's pivotal role in the global chemical industry and its dedication to promoting scientific collaboration and innovation.
Significance: This medal is a significant collector's item for those with interests in science, technology, and industrial history. It embodies the spirit of innovation that characterized the chemical industry in the early 1970s. Additionally, it serves as a historical artifact, illustrating how international exhibitions contributed to the dissemination of scientific knowledge and technological progress.
