The Zenith of the Napoleonic Empire: 1811 Napoleon II "King of Rome" Birth Commemorative Gold Medal

We are privileged to present a historical masterpiece of the highest order—the official Gold Commemorative Medal struck at the Paris Mint to celebrate the birth of the "King of Rome." With a total NGC census of only 4 coins and holding the prestigious Top Pop (Highest Graded) status, this medal represents a legendary rarity in the Napoleonic series.

■ Design

• Obverse: Jugate busts of Napoleon I wearing a laurel wreath and Marie-Louise wearing a tiara. Signed: ANDRIEU F.

• Reverse: The infant Napoleon II facing left. Inscription: NAPOLEON F. J. C. ROI DE ROME (Napoleon François Joseph Charles, King of Rome), dated XX MARS MDCCCXI (March 20, 1811).

• Engraver: Jean-Bertrand Andrieu. A titan of 19th-century French engraving, Andrieu is celebrated alongside the Barre family for his meticulous detail and neoclassical elegance, making his works highly coveted by connoisseurs.

■ Condition

MS62 (NGC Certified — Top Pop / Highest Grade) Total NGC Census: 4 Graded (MS62: 2 / MS61: 1 / AU55: 1). This specimen is the finest known.

■ Medal Details

• Year of Issue: 1811

• Issuing Authority: Paris Mint, France

• Material: Gold

• Weight: 3.72 g

• Diameter: 15 mm

• Certification: NGC MS62 (Highest Grade Globally)

• Verification: NGC Certification Page

■ Key Highlights

1. Absolute Scarcity: A Sovereign Rarity This gold medal was never intended for public circulation. It was struck in extremely limited quantities as a prestigious gift for members of the Imperial family and high-ranking dignitaries of the French Court. With only 4 examples ever certified by NGC, its presence in the open market is a near-mythical event. This is a "phantom" rarity that defines an elite collection.

2. The Climax of a Dynasty 1811 marked the absolute peak of Napoleon’s power. Having married the Archduchess Marie-Louise of the Habsburgs to secure his dynasty, the birth of his son on March 20, 1811, was the empire's greatest celebration. 101 cannons thundered across Paris to announce his arrival. This medal captures that fleeting moment of joy before the fateful Russian campaign and the eventual fall of the Eagle.

3. "L'Aiglon" — The Legend of the Eaglet Though the "King of Rome" (Napoleon II) would never truly rule, dying tragically at the age of 21, he remains immortalized in French history as "L'Aiglon" (The Eaglet). This medal is a tangible link to the heir Napoleon I risked everything to provide for. Its historical romanticism and the 200th anniversary of Napoleon’s death (2021) have only intensified global demand for such significant imperial relics.

Investment & Collection Verdict

In the world of numismatics, the Top Pop status on a globally recognized historic event is the strongest guarantee of value. This MS62 specimen retains its original golden luster and sharp, needle-like details, preserved as if it were still 1811.

For the discerning collector, this medal is more than gold; it is the "Condensed History" of the French Empire. We invite you to acquire this unrivaled, highest-graded masterpiece—a cornerstone asset for the most prestigious private vaults.