Tweehonderdste verjaardag van de stichting van de hogeschool te Leiden 1775

This silver medal was created by Barend Christiaan van Calker to commemorate the bicentennial of Leiden University. On one side, we observe a seated Minerva, Roman goddess of wisdom and strategic warfare, adorned with a helmet and spear, symbolizing knowledge and protection. Beside her stand heraldic shields that represent noble families, the elite of the time. The image of Minerva, appropriated from classical antiquity, appears repeatedly through history, representing a timeless dedication to wisdom and learning. The spear, originally a symbol of martial strength, subtly evolves to signify the defense of knowledge. In this context, she embodies the university’s role as a guardian of intellect. Consider the emotional weight carried by such symbols. Minerva is not merely a figure but a vessel of collective aspiration—a visual anchor connecting us to centuries of intellectual pursuit. In essence, this medal captures a moment in time and reflects the enduring power of symbols to evoke profound cultural memories.