Coin France 50 Francs Hercules - 1976 Silver

Augustin Dupré (1748-1833) was a renowned French engraver and medalist, particularly famous for his work on coins and medals during the French Revolution and the Consulate period. Here are some key points about his life and work:

Biography

• Birth and Training: Augustin Dupré was born on October 6, 1748, in Saint-Étienne, France. He initially worked as an engraver on weapons before turning to medal engraving.
• Career: Dupré began his engraving career at the Monnaie de Paris in 1774. His talent quickly gained recognition, and he became the General Engraver of Coins in 1791, a position he held until 1803.

Contributions and Works

• Revolutionary Coins: Dupré is best known for his coin designs during the French Revolution. He designed several iconic coins, including those featuring the motifs of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity, which had a significant influence on French numismatics.
• The Hercules Coin: One of his most famous works is the depiction of Hercules surrounded by allegorical figures of Liberty and Equality, a scene that has been reused on several French coins, including the 50 franc silver coins issued between 1974 and 1980.
• Medals: In addition to coins, Dupré also engraved numerous medals, some commemorating important events of the French Revolution. His medal of the "Storming of the Bastille" and those honoring the martyrs of liberty are particularly notable.

Style and Influence

• Style: Dupré's style is characterized by great fineness of engraving and strong revolutionary symbolism. His designs often highlight the republican ideals of liberty and equality.
• Influence: Dupré's works had a lasting influence on French numismatics. His allegorical representations and revolutionary motifs have been reused and reinterpreted on numerous coins and medals over the years.

Later Life

• Retirement and Death: After leaving his position as General Engraver of Coins in 1803, Dupré continued to work on private commissions until his death. He passed away on January 30, 1833, in Armentières-en-Brie, France.

Augustin Dupré remains a major figure in the history of French engraving and numismatics, and his works are still highly valued by collectors and art enthusiasts.

900 Silver
Ø 41.00mm, Weight 30.00g
KM. 941.1, XF
France