Vrede van de Pyreneeën tussen Frankrijk en Spanje en huwelijk van Lodewijk XIV, koning van Frankrijk met Maria Theresia van Oostenrijk, rekenpenning geslagen op last van de Conseil d'Etat 1661

This bronze coin was commissioned by the Conseil d'État to commemorate the Peace of the Pyrenees and the marriage of Louis XIV. Observe the triumphal arch, a visual motif tracing back to ancient Rome, celebrating military victory and imperial power. Here, it symbolizes diplomatic triumph, framing the union of France and Spain. Above it, a radiant sun bursts forth, an allusion to Louis XIV, the "Sun King," whose reign brought enlightenment and glory to France. The fleur-de-lis, a stylized lily, appears on the reverse, an emblem deeply entwined with French monarchy and divine right. This symbol has roots stretching back to antiquity, associated with purity and royalty. In the context of the coin, the fleur-de-lis conveys not only the power of the French crown, but also the subliminal message of a lineage blessed by divine providence. These symbols reflect a conscious effort to craft a narrative of power and legitimacy, engaging viewers on a subconscious level. They act as vessels of collective memory, where the past is constantly reinterpreted and adapted to serve present needs.