This bronze medal, minted by the Monnaie de Paris in 1977, commemorates the anniversary of UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization). Founded in 1945, UNESCO has been at the forefront of promoting international collaboration in education, science, culture, and communication. The medal celebrates UNESCO's enduring impact on global development and cultural preservation.
Specifications:
- Obverse Design: The obverse features an aerial view of the UNESCO building in Paris, symbolizing the organization's headquarters and its influence worldwide. The inscription includes "UNESCO / 1945 / UNESCO - PARIS // 1958," highlighting key milestones in UNESCO's history.
- Reverse Design: Displays a dynamic arrangement of open books, each bearing words representing UNESCO's core values: "CULTURE," "SCIENCE," "EDUCATION," and "ACTION." This design emphasizes the organization's mission to foster knowledge and cultural exchange.
- Composition: Bronze
- Diameter: 89.5 mm
- Weight: 243.5 g
- Edge: Smooth, inscribed with "lisse + 1977 + corne BRONZE," indicating the bronze material and authentication by the Monnaie de Paris.
- Orientation: 12 h (medal alignment)
- Punchmark: Corne BRONZE, confirming the medal's minting at the Monnaie de Paris
Condition:
- Grade: AU (About Uncirculated)
- Comments: The medal features a heterogeneous patina with a few dark spots, along with minor impacts and scratches, which is typical for its age.
Historical Context: UNESCO was established in the aftermath of World War II to promote peace and security through international collaboration in education, science, and culture. The organization has initiated programs to preserve world heritage sites, promote literacy, and support scientific research and cultural diversity. The medal's design reflects UNESCO's holistic approach to fostering a sustainable and peaceful world.
Significance: This medal is a significant collector's item, offering historical and cultural value. It appeals to numismatists, historians, and individuals with an interest in international organizations and their contributions to global progress. The artistic design and substantial size of the medal add to its appeal as a tribute to UNESCO's enduring mission.
