A New Gold Coin Commemorates 125 Years of the Vienna Symphony Orchestra
Austria has issued a special 100 Euro gold coin celebrating the founding of the Vienna Symphony Orchestra, highlighting over a century of Viennese musical tradition.
Design Features
The coin’s front displays a female violinist with an ornamental band in a modernist floral pattern in the background. A lyre near her shoulder symbolizes inspiration and creativity.
The reverse side portrays Euterpe, the Greek muse of music, playing her flute. Surrounding her are the Viennese horn, harp, and cello, enhanced by Art Nouveau decorations.
Historical Significance
Established in 1900 as the Vienna Concert–Verein, the orchestra is an integral part of Vienna’s cultural identity. Its debut was conducted by Ferdinand Löwe on 30 October 1900 in the Vienna Musikverein’s Great Hall.
- They performed the first complete Beethoven symphony cycle in Vienna.
- Premiered significant works by composers Bruckner, Schoenberg, and Ravel.
- Led by notable twentieth-century conductors such as Karajan, Sawallisch, and Prêtre.
"The coin commemorates the 'golden heritage of more than a century of Viennese musical history.'"
Author's summary: This commemorative gold coin honors the Vienna Symphony Orchestra’s rich 125-year legacy, celebrating its pivotal role in shaping Vienna’s musical heritage.