Switzerland. Ticino. Medal 1803 “dei Consiglieri”. (Gold, 35.50 mm. 25.70 g) VIRTVTI CIVIVM PRAEMIVM EST PATRIAE LAVS Cantonal coat of arms surmounted by a crowned fasces between two laurel branches. Rev. In the field, in an oak wreath, the inscription PAGI TICINENSIS LIBERA COMITIA XX MAII MDCCCIII and around HELVETIORUM FOEDUS AEQUE RENOVATUM. Della Casa p. 141; Wund 2843; Leu Schweizer Medaillen n. 1385. Extremely rare. A few minor edge-bumps, About extremely fine/Very fine.
This was the first official coinage commissioned by the Canton of Ticino, known as Councillor’s medal. It was intended as remuneration for the deputies of the Grand Council as the Ticino constitution did not provide for remuneration for councillors - E’ questa la prima coniazione ufficiale fatta eseguire dal Canton Ticino, detta “dei Consiglieri”. Era destinata quale compenso ai deputati del Gran Consiglio in quanto la costituzione ticinese non prevedeva compensi per i consiglieri.