Judaica / Zionisim - Holland, Medal Commemorating the Edict of Toleration by Emperor Joseph II, 1782

Judaica / Zionisim - Holland, Medal Commemorating the Edict of Toleration by Emperor Joseph II, 1782 A historic and rare silver medal struck in 1782 in Holland to commemorate the issuance of the Edict of Toleration by Emperor Joseph II. This groundbreaking reform granted, for the first time, civil rights, freedom of occupation, and eased restrictions on the Jews of Austria, as well as on non-Catholic Christians (Protestants and Orthodox). The medal is considered one of the important symbolic pieces representing the European Enlightenment and the shift in governmental attitudes toward Jews. Obverse: Bust of Emperor Joseph II facing right. Around the rim appears the Latin inscription: "IOSEPH II D·G·ROM·IMP·VERAE PIETATIS VINDEX" Translation:"Joseph II, by the grace of God Emperor of Rome, Defender of True Religion." At the bottom appears the signature of the engraver: "I. G. HOLTZHEY FEC." Referring to Johann Georg Holtzhey, one of the most important Dutch medalists of the 18th century. Reverse: An allegorical figure kneeling before an altar upon which rest the Tablets of the Law, symbolizing the reforms directed toward the Jewish community. Above, rays of heavenly light descend, representing divine truth. To the right appears the inscription: "AMICISSIMA VERITAS" Translation: "Most Beloved Truth." At the bottom appears the Roman date: "MDCCLXXXII" = 1782 Silver. Weight: 30.194 g Diameter: 45 mm