Description

The Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra gave what is considered to be its first ever performance on March 28, 1842. Issued in celebration of the 175th anniversary of that “Grand Concert”, and thus the founding of the Vienna Philharmonic, this splendid coin pays homage to the world famous orchestra and its unique sound.

Coin Design

The obverse of the coin features portraits of the orchestra’s three founding fathers, Otto Nicolai, August Schmidt and Alfred Julius Becher. In the background is the deed of incorporation of the orchestra, which was founded on principles of democracy and entrepreneurial initiative. Not only did the original “Grand Concert”, conducted by Otto Nicolai, lay the foundations for technically and musically brilliant performances of classical symphonic works, it also provided the members of the Court Opera Orchestra with an alternative source of income.

The coin’s reverse shows a detail from Max Oppenheimer’s 15m triptych “Die Philharmoniker”, which hangs in the Belvedere museum in Vienna.

Limited Mintage

The Austrian Mint will release no more than 30,000 of the 175th Anniversary of the Vienna Philharmonic.

Presentation Packing

Comes in a case complete with a numbered certificate of authenticity and protective slipcase

Austrian Legal Tender

The face value of this silver coin is €20 Euros.