FOUNDATION OF THE CITY OF BERNE

DASSIER, Jean: Swiss, ca.1745, Silver, 52 mm
Obv: Bear holding sword, Cap of Liberty and shield on pile of trophies    RESPUBLICA BERNENSIS.
Rev: Religion by alter, flanked by stork and owl    FELICITAS REIPUBLICAE
Exergue:  SENATUS ET SEDECIM VIRI REIPUBLICAE BERNENSIS.
Signed:  I. DASSIER F.
Ref: Haller I, 789; Wund 1359;  Europese Penningen # 1836;  Weiss BW098

Berne is the capital of the canton of Berne and, since 1848, the political capital of Switzerland. It is situated 1800 feet above sea level at a loop in the river Aare. Berne is a picturesque city, noted for its arcades and beautiful fountains. It preserves more of its medieval appearance than any other town in Switzerland. Its gothic cathedral, begun in 1421, dominates the town. Another of its outstanding features is the astronomical clock tower or Zeitglockenturm, which dates from 1530. This famous clock tower has puppets of various animals that revolve on the hour. The bear, which is prominently depicted on the obverse of this medal, is the town's heraldic device. It appeared on the first known seal in 1224 and is said to have given the town its name.

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