The metal speaks: resolving the mystery of Albrecht Durer’s medallion

In 2017 a medallion dated 1508 and carrying the signature of Albrecht Dürer (AD), one of the greatest masters of the Northern Renaissance, was discovered. To date this would be the first known surviving goldsmith work by AD. So far all information concerning this medallion appear to support its authenticity. But, to fully confirm its authorship, it is necessary to reveal the history of the metal used to produce the medallion. Combining X-ray transmission diffraction with X-ray fluorescence we allows us to reveal which method was used to work the metal, and what the origin of the used metal was, respectively. Both pieces of information are the last ones to complete the puzzle of this mysterious medallion.