Marie Curie Commemorative Silver Medal
Decorative Object/Commemorative Medal · Unspecified private mint or French Monnaie de Paris (based on stylistic portraiture); often commissioned by scientific or numismatic societies.
Pattern: Marie Sklodowska-Curie Memorial Issues
Type
Decorative Object/Commemorative Medal
Maker
Unspecified private mint or French Monnaie de Paris (based on stylistic portraiture); often commissioned by scientific or numismatic societies.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or French Standard Silver (.800 or .950). Surface shows characteristic silver oxidation (tarnish).
Dimensions
Estimated 30mm to 50mm in diameter; typical weight for medals of this size ranges from 15 to 35 grams.
Description
A poignant silver commemorative medal honoring the double Nobel Prize-winning scientist Marie Curie. The obverse features a highly textured profile portrait showing Curie in her later years, surrounded by her name and the years of her birth and death. The metal exhibits a rich, multi-colored patina known as 'toning,' suggesting long-term exposure to atmospheric conditions.
Key Features
Deep relief bust of Marie Curie; dates 1867 and 1934; classic circular medal format with raised rim.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or French Standard Silver (.800 or .950). Surface shows characteristic silver oxidation (tarnish).
Finish & Decoration
Satin/Matte finish with relief portraiture. Features a profile bust of Marie Curie with name and dates 1867-1934 in sans-serif and serif typography.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible hallmarks in the orientation shown; hallmarks on such medals are typically located on the rim (edge) or small stamps on the reverse.
Construction Details
Die-struck (struck from a master die under high pressure) to produce sharp relief; machine-manufactured.
Functional Features
Non-functional; intended for display, often stored in a presentation case or cabinet.
Handle & Grip Details
None; circular coin-like form.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine die-struck with fine engraving work on the portrait grain; high-quality industrial manufacturing typical of European mints.
Authentication Indicators
Typography matches mid-century French commemorative styles; wear patterns on high points (cheekbone, hair) indicate genuine age rather than a modern cast replica.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely France or Poland, given the subject's heritage; manufactured in a professional minting facility using industrial presses.
Era & Period
Modernist / Mid-20th Century Commemorative Style (Post-1934).
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1970 based on the typography style and the wear pattern of the metal.
Cultural Significance
Represents the intersection of science and numismatic art; serves as a tangible tribute to women's contributions to the field of radioactivity and higher education.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. Significant surface tarnish (patination) visible. Minor rim nicks and surface scratches consistent with handling without a protective case.
Value Estimate
$40.00 - $120.00 USD, depending on metal purity and specific mint identification.
Care & Maintenance
Do not rub or polish with abrasives, as it will destroy the collectible 'toning.' Store in a PVC-free archival coin flip or a velvet-lined case.
Similar Pieces
Polish 100 Zloty commemorative coins; various bronze versions of the same medal which are more common and less valuable than the silver strike.
Interesting Facts
Marie Curie is the only person to win Nobel Prizes in two different scientific fields (Physics and Chemistry). Silver medals like this are often awarded by universities or scientific institutions.