Switzerland (Zürich) Bronze Medal 1823 - In memory of Johann Conrad Escher von der Linth

56.48g. 51mm. UNC/UNC. 

Medalier: H. H. Lipkens (signed H. H. LIPKENS on truncation of the bust on obverse). 

Schweizer Medaillen 428; Slg. Stroehlin 419. 

Obv.: Draped bust of Johann Conrad Escher von der Linth facing left. 

Inscription around: 

I. C. ESCHERUS LIMAGIANUS TURICENSIS 

(Johann Conrad Escher of the Linth, native of Zürich). 

Below the truncation: 

N. 24 AUG. 1767. OB. 9 MART. 1823. 

(Born 24 August 1767 – Died 9 March 1823). 

Rev.: Five-line Latin inscription within an oak wreath; small six-pointed star above. 

Inscription: 

INGENIO 

CANDORE 

VIRTUTE 

CIVIS 

OPTIMUS 

(For intellect, integrity, virtue – the finest of citizens). 

This medal was issued by the city of Zürich in 1823 in memory of Johann Conrad Escher von der Linth (1767–1823), a Swiss naturalist, civil engineer, and prominent member of the cantonal and federal governments. He is best remembered for his leadership in the construction of the Linth canal, a major hydraulic engineering project that improved the health and economy of the region. The reverse inscription pays tribute to his intellect, character, and civic virtue. These medals were presented by the Escher family fund to relatives and colleagues in his memory.