The obverse side of one coin has the inscription: "Ludov XVI., D. Gratia" (with the head of Louis); and on the reverse side are the royal arms of France (fleur-de-lis) and the inscription: "1782, Rex Franciæ et Navarræ." The obverse side of the other coin, only ten years later, has the head of Louis and the inscription: "Louis XVI., Roi des Français"; and on the reverse side: "1792, 4 de la lib.," with the royal arms replaced by a floral design. There is a great difference in the title of the king; and the fourth year of liberty is most significant.
The medal is an English one struck in 1794, on the obverse of which is the following inscription: "A map of France, 1794. France divided, throne overthrown, honour trodden under foot, religion 'sixes and sevens,' glory erased, and fire in every corner." And on the reverse is the inscription: "May Great Britain ever remain the reverse."
These were the fanatical times in which Lavoisier lived and worked. Fancy any man of science in these days attempting to do research work during such a general upheaval.
A few words concerning the ever-memorable place of execution will be of interest. The Place de la Révolution, now the Place de la Concorde, the first square in Europe, has a tragic history. Originally a waste ground, it was reclaimed in 1748, after the peace of Aix-la-Chapelle
