Voltaire (1770) 1770

This bronze medal, "Voltaire," created in 1770 by G.C. Waechter, portrays the French Enlightenment writer and philosopher Voltaire. The obverse depicts a profile portrait of Voltaire, while the reverse features an allegorical scene with a pedestal inscribed with Voltaire's name and the Latin phrase "ecrusat," meaning "he crushes." The medal serves as a testament to Voltaire's influence and legacy, celebrating his critical thinking and impact on intellectual discourse. The small size of the medal, measuring 5.9 cm in diameter, suggests it was intended for personal use or as a commemorative piece.