Inhuldiging van Frederik Wilhelm II van Pruisen in Aurich 1786 1786

This silver medal, made by Loos in 1786, commemorates the inauguration of Frederik Willem II of Prussia in Aurich. Its small scale belies its significance as a symbol of power and authority. Minting coins and medals is a fascinating blend of craft and industry. The process begins with creating dies - hardened steel punches - with the desired design engraved in reverse. These are then used to strike the metal, pressing the image onto the blank coin. The material itself, silver, is critical. Its preciousness reflects the value placed on the event and the ruler. The crispness of the impression speaks to the skill of the die cutter and the force of the striking process. Mass production ensures widespread distribution, embedding the image of the ruler in the minds of the populace. Medals like this were powerful tools of propaganda, carefully crafted to project an image of strength and legitimacy. Examining the materials and processes used in their creation reveals the complex interplay of artistry, technology, and political power in shaping our understanding of history.