Figure 1: Commemorative Medal of the Panduren Leader Freiherr von der Trenck. Image from the author’s archive
Introduction: This medal, the Commemorative Medal of the Panduren Leader Freiherr von der Trenck (Gedenkmedaille an den Pandurenoberst Frhrn v.d. Trenck) was issued as a commemorative medal to those who served in the 53rd Infantry Regiment from 1741-1746 while Colonel Franz Freiherr von der Trenck was commander.
Date Issued: 1746
Reason Issued: Given as a commemorative medal to those who served in the 53rd Infantry Regiment from 1741-1746 while Colonel Franz Freiherr von der Trenck was commander.
Classes or Types: Two: Silver Medal and Bronze Medal
Interesting Facts: Von der Trenck is considered the father of military music
· The Pandur regiment was a paramilitary unit that specialized in guerrilla tactics and was composed primarily of Croat and Serb troops. In 1756 the military unit became a Hungarian regiment, which existed until 1918 as the Imperial and Royal Infantry Regiment No. 53.
· Van der Trenck was considered to be a very corrupt officer. In 1746 he was tried for atrocities, disobedience and insubordination. Initially sentenced to death, Maria Theresa pardoned him to life imprisonment at Špilberk Castle in Brno where he died in 1749.
· This medal was also issued as a table medal
Hallmarks: The Vienna Assay Office Mark
Design: A round medal with an attached loop shaped eye and a raised rim
Figure 2: Bronze Commemorative Medal of the Panduren Leader Freiherr von der Trenck, obverse. Image from the author’s archive
Obverse: A bust of Franz von der Trenck facing the viewers left and wearing a military tunic and kalpak. Around the upper portion of the bust is inscribed: OBRIST.FRANZ.FREIHERR VON DER TRENCK PANDUREN KOMMONDANT. Translation: Colonel Franz Baron von Trenck Panduren Commander. Below the bust is the date 1741-1746.
Figure 3: Commemorative Medal of the Panduren Leader Freiherr von der Trenck, reverse. Image from the author’s archive
Reverse: A plain field on which is a laurel wreath that follows the contour of the edge of the medal. Within the wreath is inscribed: GEDENKMEDALLE DES K.U.K. INFANTERIE-REGIMENTS NR 53. Translation: Commemorative Medal of the Imperial and Royal Infantry Regiment No. 53.
Weight:
- Silver Medal: 40.1 grams
- Bronze Medal: 31.1-32.3 grams
Size: 44.8-45 mm
Type of Material: Silver and bronze
Variations: None known
Designer: Unknown
Manufacturer: Unknown
Number Issued: Unknown
Case: Unknown
Figure 4: Commemorative Medal of the Panduren Leader Freiherr von der Trenck, ribbon. Image from the author’s archive
Ribbon: A white ribbon with red side stripes
Attachments: None
Miniature: None known
5. Franz Freiherr von der Trenck. Image from the author’s archive
I hope you enjoyed this blog. Until next time, I hope you find joy in our shared interest.
Rick
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