Franklin Winged Genius Medal Tribute – 2 Troy Ounce Silver Round

Lightning above, a fallen crown below: few medal designs unite science and revolution as directly as Augustin Dupré’s 1784 tribute to Benjamin Franklin. This modern Intaglio Mint silver round revisits that celebrated composition in two troy ounces of .999 fine silver, pairing Franklin’s portrait with an allegory of knowledge and independence.

Science and Diplomacy in One Design

Franklin’s reputation in France combined scientific achievement with public service. His work with electricity and the lightning rod made him internationally known, while his diplomatic efforts helped secure French support for American independence. Dupré’s medal brought those two sides of his life together after the Revolutionary War.

The Latin motto, “Eripuit coelo fulmen sceptrumque tyrannis,” praises him for taking lightning from the heavens and the scepter from tyrants. Associated with the French statesman Turgot, the line gives the reverse its organizing idea: natural force brought under human understanding, and royal power challenged by the American cause.

The winged genius is an allegorical figure, rather than a literal winged portrait of Franklin. Reading the scene that way reveals how eighteenth-century medalists could compress a public career into a few powerful symbols. This piece is a modern silver tribute to that historical medal, not an original 1784 issue.

Obverse Design

Franklin’s portrait follows the likeness associated with Houdon’s 1778 bust. The surrounding legend names Benjamin Franklin and Boston, with “XVII JAN. MDCCVI” recording January 17, 1706, his birth date.

Reverse Design

A winged figure gestures toward lightning striking a temple protected by a lightning rod and toward a crown and scepter cast down below. The Latin motto surrounds the scene. The dedication at the bottom names Augustin Dupré and gives the date MDCCLXXXIV—1784—linking the composition to its historical model.

Specifications

• Weight: 2.00 troy ounces
• Thickness: Approximately 6 mm
• Purity: .999 fine silver
• Edge: Reeded
• Diameter: 39 mm
• Finish: Brilliant Uncirculated

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