Napoleon Bonaparte Medal – AN XIII (1804–1805), Silvered Bronze

Description

striking Napoleonic-era French medal issued during the transition from the Consulate to the Empire, dated AN XIII (1804–1805) of the French Revolutionary calendar. This officially sanctioned medal celebrates Napoleon Bonaparte’s elevation as Emperor, produced under the direction of Dominique‑Vivant Denon and engraved by Bertrand Andrieu, two of the most important figures of French medallic art.

The medal retains its original silvered finish over bronze, with attractive age patina and an integral suspension loop, indicating it was intended to be worn as a pendant or decoration.

Obverse

• Laureate right‑facing bust of Napoleon Bonaparte
• Inscription: NAPOLEON EMPEREUR
• Signed below: DENON / ANDRIEU F.

The laurel wreath reflects Roman imperial symbolism, emphasizing Napoleon’s new status as Emperor.

Reverse

• Allegorical scene representing France, flanked by figures symbolizing the Senate and the People
• Inscription: LE SENAT ET LE PEUPLE
• Date: AN XIII (1804–1805)
• Additional signature: DENON DIR.

This reverse celebrates the formal support of the Senate and the people in Napoleon’s assumption of imperial power.