Exraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy

harasha

Iosephus

Interesting appropriation of a Rembrandt painting for the subject. Quite a contrast between the textures on the figures and the simplicity (almost clip art like) in the rendering of Francis's coat of arms.

Stork

What are the small marks on the lower part of the obverse, the dark oval and Lego piece thingy? Also, does it say 'after Rembrandt' somehow?

STLNATS

Originally posted by: Stork

What are the small marks on the lower part of the obverse, the dark oval and Lego piece thingy? Also, does it say 'after Rembrandt' somehow?

Mint mark to the left, purity mark to the right (986). Most recent Vatican officials carry one or both of these. There is a reference to Rembrandt in teeny tiny type below the purity mark.



I think this is the third medal, including the annuale, which references the extraordinary holy year. Also, interesting that none of the medals this year, including the annuale that was issued at the end of June and the Mother Teresa medal carry the pope's portrait, just his arms. A real departure from tradition. Also Joe's comment about clip art is on the mark I think. The designs of the medals of the current pope are fairly simple/stylized at best and take some getting used to.

Iosephus

Originally posted by: STLNATS
Also, interesting that none of the medals this year, including the annuale that was issued at the end of June and the Mother Teresa medal carry the pope's portrait, just his arms.

I admittedly haven't followed the recent Vatican issues, but the consistent lack of portraiture is quite disappointing to hear about.

harasha

Sometimes a medal can be too simple.