Overwinningen aan de Rijn, ter ere van Frederik III, keurvorst van Brandenburg 1689

This medal by Raimund Faltz was made to honor Frederick III, Elector of Brandenburg. Medals like this one played a key role in early modern European politics and culture, working as tools to shape public opinion and immortalize rulers. Made in a German territory in the late 17th or early 18th century, the medal uses imagery that blends classical symbols with contemporary political messaging. On one side, we see a portrait of Frederick III, identified by inscription as the ruler of Brandenburg. The other side features a personification of the Rhine river, a classical symbol that here represents the territories under Frederick's control and prosperity under his reign. The Latin inscription ‘Salus Provinciarum’ translates to ‘the safety of the provinces,’ linking Frederick to the well-being of his people. Understanding this medal requires us to consider the political and social institutions of Brandenburg at the time. Primary sources such as administrative records, political pamphlets, and personal letters can illuminate the significance of these objects.