Moneta's Temple and Gallery

France - 5 Centimes L'AN 5 (1796) W - Lille

Moneta — Fri, 17 May 2024 14:45:59 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: France, First Republic Æ 5 Centimes. 1796 W. REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE, draped bust of Marianne to left, wearing Phrygian cap / Denomination, year and mintmark within wreath. KM 640. 9.52g, 29mm, 6h A 1st Republic issue during the French Revolution.

France - Caisse Bonne Foi 3 Sols 1791

Moneta — Fri, 03 May 2024 14:22:09 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: A rare and uncirculated coinage issue of the French Revolutionary period of L'AN III (1791). Issued by the Caisse de Bonne Foi (Foy) and the scarcer of the two general types struck. The lesser valued type, with the helmeted portrait of Minerva, can also be seen here in the Moneta Museum at this: /showphoto.php?photo=1750&title=french-revolutionbonne-foy&cat=569 This 3 Sols Monnaies de Confiance coin features a number of Revolutionary symbols that bear some explanation. The tablet, seen often, here proclaims "DROI DE L'HOMME ARTI V" [The Rights of Man Article 5]. The baby is recognized as the 'Genie of France' and as a token coinage it states "PAYABLE EN ECHANGE D'ASSIGNATS" which meant that when the time was right this 3 Sols denomination could be exchanged for the paper Assignats, which nobody really wanted. It's a one year type of 1791. There are five varieties depicted in Reynaud. More information to follow. This piece is not physically in the Moneta Museum

French Rev. - 5 Sols Silver, Monneron & Boulton 1792

Moneta — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 18:51:16 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: More to come on the detailed description. Reynaud 2d type w/o last "T" of DEPARTMEN(T)S on the edge, petit coin strike that's a hair short 28 g. This is a silver plating made during manufacture in Birmingham U.K. (Monneron) rather than the phony types silvered later. It's clear to me that the official silver plated ones are far scarcer than the official gold plated rarities. I did a sampling survey of all the 5 Soles appearing in the records of ACSearch data archives. I examined 289 examples. Only 4 had Roman numeral dates. There were 3 examples in silver, one was clearly a plated silver type; there were 2 gilt (gold) plated examples. I did a similar survey for the top 3 or 4 French coin dealers, but w/o an number sampling, - none had a Roman numeral type I.

France - 5 Decimes Regeneration Fountain LAn 2

Moneta — Mon, 22 May 2023 15:29:49 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: The Egyptian fountain statue (goddess Isis) emit the waters of restoration and a gentleman helps the poor citizen to drink of the essence of rejuvenation. More to follow, see below. OB: "REGENERATION FRANCAISE" around, in exergue "10 AOUT 1793." which translates as '10 August 1793' with the revolutionary symbol of a masons level below. Stacks Bowers sale of May '23. These are rare but occasionally obtainable. PCGS AU cleaned. Engraved by the premier designer Dupre, his name is engraved on the statue base and indicated with the Libetry Cap privy mark. Auction description: FRANCE. 5 Decimes, L'An 2-A (1793). Paris Mint. PCGS Genuine--Cleaned, AU Details. Gad-390; Maz-261. Known as the "Regeneration" 2 Sols, indicating that just as the goddess Isis regenerates water from her body to give to a citizen to drink, so does the new Franc regenerate from the Revolution. Another site describes this as: Convention, 5 Decimes regeneration, Year L'AN 2, 1793 Paris. A/ REGENERATION – FRENCH. Nature in the guise of Isis causes the water of Regeneration to spring from her bosom. The President of the Assembly gives this water to drink to a citizen; signature Dupré and in the exergue: AUGUST 10, 1793 and square. R/ .(cap). FRENCH REPUBLIC. .(Workshop).. Crown, center: 5/ DECIMES/ YEAR 2. Maz.261 – G.390/1 – F.172A. Copper – 25.14 g – 35.3 mm – 6 h. Inscribed edge: ÉGALITÉ. LIBERTÉ. INDIVISIBILITÉ; [EQUALITY. FREEDOM. INDIVISIBILITY]. This coin of 5 Decimes (or 50 Centimes or 1/2 Franc) is recognized as official by Mazard. Indeed, there is a manufacturing decree and it has been regularly put into circulation. It is now classified as a FRANC (.5 fractional). Only 154,278 struck (this seems very high as they're not that common, not KM listed). And yet another description: Obverse description: an envoy of the primary assemblies, carrying a flag, receives a cup from the President of the Convention who holds a branch in his left hand in front of a fountain, surmounted by a statue of Isis, making water gush from her breasts of Regeneration; a leopard (also a Privy mark) on its left side and signed DUPRE on the base; below are inscribed the words 10 AOUT 1793; at the bottom is expressed the privy mark from the director (masons level) & (PHRYGIAN BONNET). Reverse legend: FRENCH REPUBLIC. / .AT.. Reverse description: in the center within a wreath formed of a laurel branch on the left and an oak branch on the right in four lines: 5 / DÉCIMES / - / L'AN 2.. Liberty Cap symbol: Augustin Dupré, general engraver of currencies , Paris (1793-1794). Masons level symbol: Jean-Jacques-Joseph Anfrye, Manufacturing Director of the Mint , Paris (1793-1794). Following the implementation of the new units of measurement by the decree of May 26, 1791, the first decimal coin was minted under the Convention, it was the 5 DECIMES Year 2 of Dupré (commemorating August 10, 1793) whose production began on January 20, 1794. Under the Republican Conventional Calendar Year L'AN II of the Republic: is from September 22, 1793 to September 21, 1794. This calendar will be adopted by decree of October 5, 1793. September 22, 1792, the first day of the Republic and day of the autumnal equinox was established as the first of L'AN I. The names of the days and months were chosen by the poet Fabre d'Eglantine. Napoleon will restore the Gregorian calendar to January 1, 1806. The site InfoNumis [ http://www.infonumis.info/historique&description/Convention/index.htm ] describes this coin in great detail, including 7 varieties, most very rare. There the different mintage figures (954, 77k, 155k) written by various authors, is settled at the 77k figure, which still seems way too high for the numbers seen in the market. Doing a quick survey on the ACSearch site for this type piece I get only two examples, one looks copper (w/ punch mark) the other bell metal brass.

French Indo China - 20 Centimes 1938

Moneta — Tue, 15 Feb 2022 11:06:05 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: Marianne seated left with fasces, date in exergue, [Numista.com] rice stalks in the background. I'm not sure of the Marianne identification, would that mean the Statue of Liberty in NY harbor is Marianne and not Lady Liberty? Marianne sows wheat and not rice, I'm I right? Lettering: REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE, 1937 BARRE Reverse: Denomination within wreath. Lettering: INDO-CHINE FRANÇAISE 20 CENT. TITRE 0.680.POIDS 5GR.4 Translation: French Indochina 0.680 purity, 5.4 grams Engraver: Jean-Auguste Barre

French Revolution - Caisse Metallique 1792

Moneta — Mon, 14 Feb 2022 16:30:22 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: DIXIEME DARGENT FIN 18 D L'AN 4 DELLA LIBERTE Rx: CAISSE. METALLIQUE. ETABLIE. A PARIS EN ECHANGE D'ASSIGNATS DE 50# 1792

French Revolution - Potter Porcelain 5 Sols 1792

Moneta — Mon, 14 Feb 2022 15:59:29 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: More to come, I need to translate from the French in Reynaud...varieties exist - RARE! Obverse Lettering: A LA MANUFACTURE DE PORCELAINE RUE DE CRUSSOL POTTER. 1792. Reverse Lettering: B.P. 5 SOLS PAYABLE EN ASSIGNATS DE 50

France - French Revolution 2 Decimes devalued L'AN 5

Moneta — Mon, 14 Feb 2022 14:06:24 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: 1795 - 1796, the two Decimes denomination was reduced to a value one decime. The '2' had to be scraped off and an 'UN' (1) counterstamp above to denote the new value. Article on Marianne from the "Cosmos of Collectables": https://cosmosofcollectibles.com/the-french-marianne-i-marianne-as-a-representative-of-the-french-people-part-1/

France - Hercules Group 1874

Moneta — Mon, 14 Feb 2022 13:53:05 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: During the Franco-Prussian war and the Paris Commune years the Hercules Group 5 Francs piece was again in circulation.

France - Revolution of 1848 Hercules Group

Moneta — Mon, 14 Feb 2022 13:46:09 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: With the Revolution of 1848 the Hercules Group was reintroduced.

France - 10 Francs 1984, F. Rude Arc De Triumph

Moneta — Fri, 14 Jan 2022 09:03:31 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: A nice design, look into Mr Rude's eyes, really well done. These are found with edge lettering upside down but they don't carry a premium.

France - Paris or Lyon Revolution of 1848

Moneta — Sat, 08 Jan 2022 13:53:13 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: This medal is a bit of a mystery. I assumed the Paris Revolution of 1848, supported by the mysterious group know as the Rosy Cross (Red Cross, or later Rosicrucians) was being commemorated in this medal. Doing a little more research, and knowing Lyon and other cities in France were also involved, I learned that "Croix - Rousse" was an area of Lyon, France that had an 1848 revolution of their own. The district was an industrial area that had huge silk looms that saw popular unrest known as the Artisan's Revolution between 1848 and 1851. Therefore, I cannot say for sure if the medal refers to this aspect of the 1848 Revolutions or is honoring travelers from Lyon that went to Paris to participate in the revolution there. Help is requested from specialists and French historians who can properly interpret this historic medal.

France - 5 Centimes L'An 5 [1796A] French Revolution

Moneta — Sun, 07 Mar 2021 13:34:26 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: A beautiful example of the 1st Republic 5 Centimes (CINQ) from the Paris [A] mint of 1796. It does have a spot of verigris on the reverse. The edge has an angled milled reeding. The overall tone is a glossy chocolate brown, scarce in this condition.

France - 1 Franc 1914, Semeuse

Moneta — Sun, 22 Nov 2020 12:53:19 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: France, Third Republic (1870 - 1940) One Franc featuring a French national symbol, The Sower (Semeuse). Perhaps another symbol, Mariane, in the role of the sower. An excellent NGC MS65 encapsulated example with golden and bluish hues, the photo does not do it justice. The year, 1914, is the first year of WWI in which France was so devastated. OB: The Sower, designed by Oscar Roty in 1900, a national emblem of the French Republic. REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE; O. Roty [Engraver: Louis-Oscar Roty] Rx: Underneath the face value, an olive branch is surrounded with the French motto: LIBERTE·EGALITE·FRATERNITE 1 FRANC 1914 [Translation: Liberty Equality Fraternity] The mintage is 14,361,102, years beyond 1914, to 1920, have much higher mintages; this one year can have a mintmark of "C" which has a much lower mintage of just 43,421. Article on Marianne from the "Cosmos of Collectables": https://cosmosofcollectibles.com/the-french-marianne-i-marianne-as-a-representative-of-the-french-people-part-1/

France - Directory UN Decime from 2 Dec. L'An5 (1796)

Moneta — Sun, 22 Nov 2020 11:41:31 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: French Revolution, Directory years (1st Republic). This was originally a 2 Decimes piece, however it was revalued as a one Decime by effacing the '2' and the 'S' at the end of "DE'CEME". Prominently a counterstamp added "UN" where the '2' used to be. These are rather scarce in this condition. Obverse: Bust facing left surrounded by the legend REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE·; Engraver: Augustin Dupré Reverse: UN countermarked above value, ('2' effaced) NOTE: The S in "DECIMES" is usually removed, as it is here. Lettering: UN DÉCIME L'AN 5. A (1796, Paris) Engraver: Augustin Dupré The edge is patterned indentations that form an 'X' pattern. S.Album Auction 38, Lot 3341 (~ $270).

French Revolution - 20 Sols Lefevre-Lesage 1792

Moneta — Wed, 18 Nov 2020 14:34:24 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: A second example, in many ways better than my other. These, and the remaining Monnaies de Confiance series of emergency coinage, are difficult to find and expensive in top condition. This will have to do for the LEFEVRE LESSAGE ET COMPie Ngt A PARIS coin. This silver 20 Sols is the Type 2 (Reynaud 18b) with spaced obverse legend and Dot below. It shows the allegorical figure of "Freedom" sitting with a flag in her lap. The French Rooster sits on a column pedestal and they're looking at each other. A Fasces with spear and Liberty Cap appear behind an open book representing "The Rights of Man and the Citizen" (DROITS DE L'HOMME ANTIC V), specifically Article V. Article Five states: 'The law has the right to forbid only actions harmful to society. Anything which is not forbidden by the law cannot be impeded, and no one can be constrained to do what it does not order.' It therefore appears, that among the 17 Articles, Article 5 was a declaration of libertarian freedom that succinctly separated the new order from the authoritarian past. The French Revolution attempted to set up a constitutional system of laws clearly delineating the power of the government and the separation of church and state. The reverse legend around is: 'ET AU DESSUS LAN 4 ME DE LA LIBERTE 1792' (date since Rev = 1792) and the inner legend is: 'B. P. 20 SOLS A ECHANGER EN ASSIGNATS DE 50#' which means (B.P. = Bon Pour) value of 20 Sols in exchange for 50 Assignats (nearly worthless paper money).

France - 100 Francs 1958 B

Moneta — Sun, 23 Aug 2020 16:53:50 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: I really like this Liberty Head depiction with torch. This is the 'B' mint for the mint at Beaumont - Le Roger with Cornucopia privy mark. Twenty years before the 100 Franc was gold coin! 86.26 minted for 1958.

Martinique 1897 50 centimes

numismatist6 — Thu, 11 Jun 2020 10:23:26 -0700

by: numismatist6

Description: The BON POUR (Good For) coins were minted in 1897 and 1922 in denominations of 50 centimes and 1 Franc.

Martinique 1897 1 Franc

numismatist6 — Thu, 11 Jun 2020 10:01:14 -0700

by: numismatist6

Description: The BON POUR (Good For) coins were minted in 1897 and 1922 in denominations of 50 centimes and 1 Franc.

Strasbourg siege coin 1815 1 décime (ILouis XVIII)

numismatist6 — Thu, 11 Jun 2020 09:27:23 -0700

by: numismatist6

Description: These Strasbourg provisional coins were struck in 1814 and 1815 by the defending French forces under siege in Strasbourg. This coin was issued after Napoleon abdicated and Louis XVIII was returned to the throne.

France Strasbourg 1814 1 décime (Napoleon)

numismatist6 — Thu, 11 Jun 2020 09:21:52 -0700

by: numismatist6

Description: These Strasbourg provisional coins were struck in 1814 and 1815 by the defending French forces under siege in Strasbourg. This one was issued while Napoleon was still emperor prior to his abdication.

Guadeloupe 1921 1 Franc

numismatist6 — Thu, 11 Jun 2020 08:56:23 -0700

by: numismatist6

Description: The BON POUR (Good For) coins were minted in 1903 and 1921 in denominations of 50 centimes and 1 Franc.

Guadeloupe 1921 50 centimes

numismatist6 — Thu, 11 Jun 2020 08:53:25 -0700

by: numismatist6

Description: The BON POUR (Good For) coins were minted in 1903 and 1921 in denominations of 50 centimes and 1 Franc.

Guadeloupe 1903 50 centimes

numismatist6 — Thu, 11 Jun 2020 08:50:47 -0700

by: numismatist6

Description: The BON POUR (Good For) coins were minted in 1903 and 1921 in denominations of 50 centimes and 1 Franc.

French India - Pondichery 1751 Doudou

numismatist6 — Wed, 10 Jun 2020 12:21:35 -0700

by: numismatist6

Description: This coin was minted at Pondichery in French India in 1751.

French Guiana 1818-A 10 centimes

numismatist6 — Wed, 10 Jun 2020 12:12:56 -0700

by: numismatist6

Description: This is a ten centimes piece minted for French Guiana in 1818 at Paris.

French Cochin-China 1884 1 centime

numismatist6 — Wed, 10 Jun 2020 12:06:16 -0700

by: numismatist6

Description: This was a former French colony of the southern part of Annam in Vietnam. The colony was incorporated into French Indo-China in 1885. This is a one centime piece minted in Paris for the colony.

French Cochin-China 1884 10 centimes

numismatist6 — Wed, 10 Jun 2020 11:23:34 -0700

by: numismatist6

Description: This was a former French colony of the southern part of Annam in Vietnam. The colony was incorporated into French Indo-China in 1885. This is a ten centimes piece minted in Paris for the colony.

France - 20 Francs CERES 1850A

Moneta — Sun, 07 Jun 2020 18:25:18 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: 2nd French Republic (1848 - 1851). Here is my shot of the same coin listed here in the Moneta Museum that shows the entire obverse slab, but that photo was done by big coin dealer. Here the coin is photographed thru the plastic case. I think the Ceres heads are fantastic. They were issued during, or following, the Revolutions of 1848 that again rocked the continent in a quest for social change. After this first run they were restruck in the 1870's, during the Paris Commune period. Sealing the identification of the Roman goddess (Ceres) with revolutions in France. Article on Marianne from the "Cosmos of Collectables": https://cosmosofcollectibles.com/the-french-marianne-i-marianne-as-a-representative-of-the-french-people-part-1/

Libertas Americana - v. 2020, silver medal

Moneta — Sun, 07 Jun 2020 15:43:47 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: This medal issued by the Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint) is a replica of the "Libertas Americana" (Freedom for America) medals commissioned by Benjamin Franklin in 1792 to commemorate the American victories against the British in Yorktown and Saratoga. This Libertas Americana proof medal is struck from 1 Troy oz. of .999 silver, its mintage is limited 10k. Other examples can be found in palladium, platinum, and gold with much lower mintages. These are so popular and important medals that they have been repeatedly restruck over the last decades. Originals [bronze] are extremely sought after and rare. Symbolic Designs by Esprit-Antoine Gibelin, sculpted by Augustin Dupre, Lady Liberty with flowing hair is featured on the obverse, beside a Phrygian cap on a pole. Inscriptions include "LIBERTAS AMERICANA" and the date of American independence. The reverse depicts an infant (Hercules) crushing two serpents, symbolizing the British military defeat at the battles of Yorktown and Saratoga. The French Allies are represented by the goddess Minerva, illustrated above holding back the Lion of Britain with a shield. Inscribed above "NON SINE DIIS ANIMOSUS INFANS" (The infant is not bold without divine aid), with the victory dates of Yorktown and Saratoga below. Flawless Ultra Cameo Proof 70 with First Release Label. This replica 1776 France Libertas Americana Medal Proof Medal was submitted to Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) for review within twenty-four hours of release and awarded the perfect grade of Proof 70 Ultra Cameo (UC). The 1 oz. silver is normally accompanied by a Mint issued Certificate of Authenticity and a booklet detailing the significance of the Libertas Americana. Numista.com: The Original Medal and its History Libertas Americana http://www.usrarecoininvestments.com/coin_info/colonial_coins/libertas_americana.htm The most famous of all American medals is the elegant Libertas Americana (''American Liberty'') medal. It celebrates America's Revolutionary War military victories, specifically the British surrenders at Saratoga (1777) and Yorktown (1781). Benjamin Franklin conceived the idea, as a private project to enhance Franco-American goodwill. In a letter dated March 4, 1782, Franklin wrote from Paris: ''This puts me in mind of a medal I have had a mind to strike, since the late great event you gave me an account of, representing the United States by the figure of an infant Hercules in his cradle, strangling the two serpents; and France by that of Minerva, sitting by as his nurse, with her spear and helmet, and her robe specked with a few fleurs de lys. The extinguishing of two entire armies in one war is what has rarely happened, and it gives a presage of the future force of our growing empire.'' A preliminary sketch was drawn by painter Esprit-Antoine Giblein, and the dies were engraved by Augustin Dupré. The medals were struck at the Paris Mint in 1783, with two specimens struck in gold for presentation to the King and Queen of France. A few others were struck in silver, and the rest in copper. In a letter dated April 15, 1783, Franklin wrote: ''I have caused to be struck here the medal which I formerly mentioned to you, the design of which you seemed to approve. I enclose one of them in silver, for the President of Congress, and one in copper for yourself; the impression in copper is thought to appear best, and you will soon receive a number for the members. I have presented one to the King, and another to the Queen, both in gold, and one in silver to each of the ministers, as a monumental acknowledgment, which may go down to future ages, of the obligations we are under to this nation. It is mighty well received, and gives general pleasure.'' A September 13, 1783 letter from Franklin to the President of the United States Congress added: ''I am happy to hear that both the device and workmanship of the medal are approved with you, as they have the good fortune to be by the best judges on this side of the water. It has been esteemed a well-timed, as well as a well-merited, compliment here, and has its good effects. Since the two first which you mention as received, I have sent by different opportunities so many, as that every member of Congress might have one. I hope they are come safe to hand by this time.'' Dupré probably created the obverse portrait of Liberty, with her hair flowing freely in the wind, superimposed on a pole topped by a pileus, the helmet-like emblem of freedom. The design symbolized both freedom from slavery, and America's freedom from George III of England. The assistance of France was invaluable in the triumph over England during the Revolutionary War, and the allegorical reverse design commemorates the struggle. America is depicted as an infant Hercules, strangling two serpents representing the armies of Burgoyne and Cornwallis. He is defended by France, represented as the warrior-goddess Minerva, clad in breastplate and plumed helmet, holding a shield bearing the fleurs de lys of France. She fends off the British lion, which stands with its forepaws upon her shield, its tail between its rear legs, a heraldic symbol of defeat. The dates in the exergue refer to the surrenders of Burgoyne at Saratoga and Cornwallis at Yorktown. The Latin inscription NON SINE DIIS ANIMOSUS INFANS translates as ''the infant is not bold without divine aid.'' From Malta's US Embassy website: In 1783, Benjamin Franklin, in his capacity as U.S. Ambassador to France, designed and minted America’s first medal “Libertas Americana.” Franklin gave all but one medal to French officials and members of the U.S. Congress. The sole medal given to another foreign official was a medal presented by Franklin to Grand Master Emmanuel de Rohan. Franklin sent the medal to Grandmaster de Rohan specifically to thank him for his support. In the letter that accompanied the medal, Franklin wrote, “I have the honor to address to Your Emminent Highness the medal which I have lately had struck. It is an Homage of gratitude, my Lord, which is due to the interest you have taken in our cause; and we no less owe it to your virtues and to your eminent highness wise administration of government.” Franklin also asked that the Grandmaster allow American ships to come to Maltese ports. Grandmaster de Rohan replied quickly and positively. In his response, de Rohan wrote, “This monument of American liberty has a distinguished place in my cabinet. Whenever chance or commerce shall lead any of your citizens or their vessels into the ports of my island, I shall receive them with the greatest welcome.” So began, 223 years ago, diplomatic relations between the United States in Malta. Unfortunately the original letter from Franklin and medal has not been located, despite thorough searches in the National Archives in Valletta. However, the letter from de Rohan to Franklin still exists and is located in Philadelphia in the American Philosophical Society. http://www.usrarecoininvestments.com/coin_info/colonial_coins/libertas_americana.htm (from Stack's:) http://legacy.stacks.com/Lot/ItemDetail/105999 Numismatic scholar John Adams and Massachusetts Historical Society curator Anne Bentley, who is the caretaker of the silver Libertas Americana medal that Jefferson presented to Washington in 1790, have recently completed a thorough accounting of known specimens of this and the similar Comitia Americana series. We look forward to their census, and until its publication we would estimate that perhaps two dozen or so exist, the vast majority of which are in institutional collections. The Libertas Americana medal is most famously associated with Benjamin Franklin, as the designs and legends were the result of his collaboration with other top minds of his era: Robert Livingston, who offered early encouragement; Sir William Jones, the Englishman who suggested a line from Horace be used as the reverse legend; fresco painter E.A. Gibelin, who was the first to sketch Franklin's conception. Of course, it was Franklin's friendship with the top French sculptor of the period, Augustin Dupre, that made the Libertas Americana medal an exceptionally beautiful monument to the American Liberty they both held in great esteem. Guided by Franklin's influence, it was Dupre who conceived the beautiful face of Liberty with flowing tresses that came to be the instantly identifiable face of the new nation. Franklin was very pleased with his creation. He found that Sir William Jones' suggestion for a reverse legend, translated as "The courageous child was aided by the Gods," was perfectly applicable. It was probably Franklin's idea to show the lion, representing Great Britain, with its tail between its legs. When he wrote to Robert Livingston, who served with Franklin on the committee to create the Declaration of Independence, on April 15, 1783, he reported general satisfaction with the design: "it is mightily well received, and gives general pleasure." He also included a specimen in silver for "the President of Congress" and mentioned that he presented "one in silver to each of the French ministers, as a monumental acknowledgement, which may go down in future ages, of the obligations we are under to this nation." When this letter was written, the President of Congress and the recipient of a silver medal precisely like the one offered here was none other than Elias Boudinot of New Jersey, the man who would become Director of the Mint in 1795. As noted above, Washington also received a silver specimen, Jefferson displayed a specimen at his home (composition unknown), and undoubtedly many men of similar stature in both Europe and America likewise were given specimens in silver. Washington's was included in a set of Comitia Americana medals, and Jefferson may have intended to include Libertas Americana medals in the sets that Congress "directed me to present ... to the different powers of Europe, to the universities of Europe, to certain officers there ..." Indeed, many remain in institutional collections, and silver specimens enter the market only occasionally.

France - 20 Francs CERES 1850A

Moneta — Fri, 03 Apr 2020 12:45:52 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: France, Second Republic, 20 Francs 1850-A, Paris, Gold, F.529/2 (Short dog ear) NGC MS63. These beautiful and short lived "Ceres" Head issues first appeared in 1849 on these 20 Franc issues. These followed the 1848 Genius (Angel) writing the Constitution series. Both the silver and gold issues of this period feature different depictions of what KM describes as Liberty, but is more knowledgeably known a "Ceres," the Roman goddess of agriculture, grain crops, fertility and motherly relationships. She sports many of the familiar iconic design features found during the French Revolution; there's a fasces behind her head and her earrings are Freemason / Illuminati balance levels. Reborn images of the French Revolution presented because of the Revolution of 1848. This one may be considered undergraded, with many MS 63's to choose from, this one was the one with the least marks. Higher grades command much higher prices.

France - Revolution 2 Sols - Hercules

Moneta — Wed, 01 Jan 2020 11:42:20 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: REVOLUTION COINAGE / CONFIANCE (MONNAIES DE…) Monneron 2 Sols with Hercules, 1792 Birmingham, Soho UK (Matthew Boulton) R3, copper - RARE! OB: "LA SAGESSE GUIDE SA FORCE" [WISDOM GUIDES ITS STRENGTH] Hercules breaking the royal scepter, a broken crown at his feet; two lines in exergue: "LA FIN DU / DESPOTISME" [THE END OF / DESPOTISM] Rx : REVOLUTION FRANÇAISE - 1792 below, legend in six lines : MEDAILLE / QUI SE VEND / DEUX-SOLS / A PARIS CHEZ / MONNERON / /PATENTÉ/ Edge Inscription: LA CONFIANCE. AUGMENTE. LA. VALEUR [TRUST INCREASES THE VALUE] Mint struck at Soho in a regular planchet. Catalog: Mazard 162; Weight: 13.98 g. Not physically in the Moneta Museum. Very Rare!

France - 100 Francs 1958 - Wing privy

Moneta — Mon, 27 May 2019 12:40:38 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: A bold depiction of Liberty with Torch appears on this last year of issue with the more common Wing privy mark (Bazor - Engraver General). This is a key date for this short series. The pre-war issue 100 Francs was a gold coin with Bazor Liberty head, this post-war issue is struck in copper-nickel. R. Cochet was the designer. This example is without a 'B' between the leaves (Beaumont mint) making it a Paris mint issue, and much scarcer than the "B" marked coins, which are a different KM catalog number. Article on Marianne from the "Cosmos of Collectables": https://cosmosofcollectibles.com/the-french-marianne-i-marianne-as-a-representative-of-the-french-people-part-1/

France - 10 Centimes 1916 Marianne

Moneta — Mon, 27 May 2019 12:14:44 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: Here is another great French coin design by Dupuis. OB; 'REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE - DANIEL-DUPUIS' [Engraver: Jean-Baptiste Daniel-Dupuis] Rx: Allegorical figure of the French Republic with her child. Inscription "LIBERTE EGALITE FRATERNITE - 10c - DANIEL-DUPUIS 1916. This is the most common year, during WWI, of a series that ran from 1898 to 1921, with the exception of the WWI years if 1918 & 19. However, undesignated (yet) by NGC is the fact that this scarcer variety has a * STAR indicating this scarcer variety was minted in the WWI years at MADRID, Spain. Scarcer year high grade examples are highly sought after in France. This example, which is much better in hand than the photo indicates is in an NGC holder graded MS64RB (looks ~98% red to me); photo color is off. Republic of France. Marianne as Liberty, obverse, with representation of France protecting a child on the reverse. Article on Marianne from the "Cosmos of Collectables": https://cosmosofcollectibles.com/the-french-marianne-i-marianne-as-a-representative-of-the-french-people-part-1/

France - 100 Francs 1958 w/Owl Privy

Moneta — Wed, 13 Feb 2019 19:28:06 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: A bold depiction of Liberty with Torch appears on this last year of issue with the scarce Owl privy mark (Raymond Joly, Engraver General). This is the key date and privy marked coin is rather scarce. The pre-war issue 100 Francs was a gold coin with Bazor Liberty head, this post-war issue is struck in copper-nickel. R. Cochet was the designer. This example is without a 'B' between the leaves (Beaumont mint) making it a Paris mint issue, and much scarcer than the "B" marked coins, which are a different KM catalog number. Article on Marianne from the "Cosmos of Collectables": https://cosmosofcollectibles.com/the-french-marianne-i-marianne-as-a-representative-of-the-french-people-part-1/

French Revolution Anniversary Medal

Moneta — Wed, 13 Feb 2019 18:49:06 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: This is a small (21mm) silver medal issued to commemorate the very first act of the French Revolution in 1789. That being the vote to curtail the privileges of the elite ruling classes ("Abandon De Tous Les Privileges"). Obverse is probably a depiction of Marianne in an oak leaf crown, star above. In the right field are the words 'Projet 1984' below is the name of the designer stated as 'd'op BORREL F.' The reverse has a scene of the revolutionaries involved in the vote around a short column with the words "A LA PATRIE" (To The Homeland) ; to the left below appear the reverses' designer 'd'op GATTEAUX.' In exergue "1789 m 1989" with privy mark cornucopia 1 *, below. This reverse design originates with a silver medal of Louis XVI on 1789 by Duvivier & Gatteaux [Hennin 59, Julius 49, TNR 12.2]. A translation & intrepretation of the reverse legend & scene: 'ABANDONMENT OF ALL PRIVILEGES' In the hall of the National Assembly at Versailles, the deputies taking the oath around an altar inscribed, A LA PATRIE, 'To The Homeland'. Article on Marianne from the "Cosmos of Collectables": https://cosmosofcollectibles.com/the-french-marianne-i-marianne-as-a-representative-of-the-french-people-part-1/

Algeria under France - WWII Allied issue

Moneta — Sun, 10 Feb 2019 16:35:46 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: The title says all I know, it's supposed to be a Allied Forces issue of France in 1944. These are commonly available in much better shape but without these wonderful colors. If you know more, such as a catalog reference, please let me know more so I can include it here.

France - 10 Centimes 1898 - Marianne

Moneta — Sat, 02 Feb 2019 11:52:44 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: Republic of France. Marianne as Liberty, obverse, with representation of France protecting a child on the reverse. Minted this first year of 1898 without mintmark, as all are (Paris). Struck until 1921 with the exception of the WWI years of 1918 & 1919. 4 M struck in 1898.Exceptional design by Dupuis. Physically not in the Moneta Museum. Article on Marianne from the "Cosmos of Collectables": https://cosmosofcollectibles.com/the-french-marianne-i-marianne-as-a-representative-of-the-french-people-part-1/

Reunion - 1 Franc 1964

Moneta — Thu, 14 Sep 2017 13:32:23 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: This French colony features a nice portrait of a Winged Liberty with ships at dock in the background. As a major port in the Indian Ocean, near Madagascar, this design is also seen on their 2 and 5 Franc pieces. The reverse features sugar cane which is a cash crop on the island.

Guadeloupe - 1 Franc 1903

Moneta — Thu, 14 Sep 2017 11:09:48 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: This is a great design by Patey, and this depiction of a South American Indian on a possession of France, makes this coin in demand in higher conditions. Special strikes and those done in silver also exist. This coin was struck again in 1921 and also in a 50 Centimes denomination. I believe this coin is also known to be the one with the most sides, while looking round, it actually has 20 sides. The reverse image is of a major source of revenue for this island near South America, sugar cane. Mintage for both years 700k each.

France - LaFayette 10 Euros - 2007

Moneta — Sat, 02 Sep 2017 11:01:20 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: General La Fayette - Hero of the American Revolution (1757 - 1834). Obverse shows and 3/4 facing military portrait of the General. Like the silver 1/4 E, the reverse shows his ship, The "Hermione" sailing away. He used his ship to secretly join the American Revolution against the wishes of the King of France, Louis XVI. Only 500 of these proof coins were struck.

France - LaFayette 1/4 Euro - 2011

Moneta — Sat, 02 Sep 2017 10:47:25 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: La Fayette - Hero of the American Revolution (1757 - 1834). Obverse is described as a military bust of the General 3/4 facing. The reverse features a depiction of his ship, the "Hermione," which he used to sneak off to the American Revolution against the orders of King Louis XVI of France. This coin looks like a proof, the certificate says its Brilliant Uncirculated, and KM describes it as proof-like. It's so completely proof and reflective that I can't get a decent photo of it. The mintage was 5000.

France - La Fayette 100 F Piedfort Proof

Moneta — Fri, 01 Sep 2017 16:05:02 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: One of the greater figures in the American and French Revolutions. He disobeyed the orders of King Louis XVI and secretly made his way to the British colonies of America to help fight the War of Independence against Great Britain. He was wounded in the war and was instrumental in getting France to ally with America, and for procuring massive aid from France that helped win the war. The financial effects of this aid was also a primary factor in the disaffection that led to the French Revolution. This set was part of a wider series of LaFayette commemoratives struck in silver, gold, palladium and platinum.

France - La Fayette 100 F Piedfort BU

Moneta — Fri, 01 Sep 2017 15:58:34 -0700

France 5 Francs - 1795 Hercules Group

Moneta — Sun, 20 Aug 2017 13:52:34 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: A typically worn example of the First Issue of the Hercules Group designed by the famous engraver Augustin Dupre (1748 - 1833) dated L'AN 4 (Revolutionary Calendar = 1795/96). His designs, replete with Revolutionary (& Freemason) symbols, are to be seen in the French Revolutionary era coin designs. With the French Revolutionary Wars these design themes and symbols can be found over much of Europe. They were specified symbols decreed by the French Republic and the National Convention. On July 27, 1794 the French Revolutionary Parliament seized control of the government, executing those in charge, including their leader Maximilien Robespierre. This ended the year long Terror and the government was now controlled by a 5 man committee known as the Directory. With this came a new decimal currency unit - the Franc, divided by tenth and hundredths, a system adopted by the United States of America. Hercules was chosen as a central figure, espousing UNION and FORCE (power). Notably he retains his lion skin cloak but gone is his club. Now he stands as a brother to figures of Liberty (previously Mariane with staff and Liberty Cap) on one side and Equality (symbolised with the Masons triangular level) on the other. This design was used until 1803 with the advent of Napoleon Bonaparte. However, during the revolution of 1848 - 1849 the Hercules Group returned and did so again during the Paris Commune revolution of 1871. The Hercules Group reappeared in 1951 - 1980, and on several bullion type issues since. The edge of the original coin series shows "NATIONALE GARANTIE" to help inspire confidence in the new currency made from silver obtained from their European conquests.

French Revolution - 5 Sols Lefevre LeSage 1792

Moneta — Sun, 23 Jul 2017 13:45:52 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: The Parisian company of 'Lefevre, Lesage and Company' doesn't have a lot of definitive history available. The KM SCWC catalog indicates 3 types, but more detailed French works indicate that there are 5 varieties of the 5 Sols. The company issued 5, 10, & 20 Sol denominations. Among the 'Trusted Money' of the French Revolution these issues are unusual because they were struck in silver. Obverse theme is a pair of crossed cornucopia with a spear topped by a Liberty Cap thru the center. The designer and manufacturer are unknown and there is some speculation as to which LeSage was involved. A Jacques-Guillaume LeSage was a commissioner to the king for monetary control, so that's one possibility. These coins were struck in the spring of 1792 and by decrees of the city of Paris and the central government (June & September 1792) they were demonetized, confiscated, and the factory closed. These were also distributed and used in Nimes where there was a factory branch. It's unusual to find these with the value clearly rendered in the strike. After searching for various silver issues of the Revolution I can say it is quite common to see them with unusual dark spots, and evidence that someone has tried to remove them. Obverse legend: LEFEVRE LESAGE ET COMPie Ngt A PARIS. Reverse legend around: ET AU DESSUS LAN 4 ME DE LA LIBERTE 1792 Reverse center: B.P. (Bon Pour - value) 5 SOLS A ECHANGER EN ASSIGNATS DE 50# The varieties are described in "MONNAIES DE CONFIANCE" by Reynaud (2nd ed. 2016) put this coin as the type with small '5' before SOLS & coin rotation. REYNAUD #16 c (KM Tn16).

French Revolution - Lefevre, Lesage 10 Sols

Moneta — Sun, 23 Jul 2017 13:14:34 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: The Parisian company of 'Lefevre, Lesage and Company' doesn't have a lot of definitive history available. The KM SCWC catalog indicates two types, but more detailed French works indicate that there are 5 varieties of the 10 Sols. The company issued 5, 10, & 20 Sol denominations. Among the 'Trusted Money' of the French Revolution these issues are unusual because they were struck in silver. Featuring familiar themes, a figure of the Genius of France (a French Miss Liberty), a rooster, columns, Liberty Cap on a spear and a page from the constitution noting the 'Right of Man' specified in Article V. The designer and manufacturer are unknown and there is some speculation as to which LeSage was involved. A Jacques-Guillaume LeSage was a commissioner to the king for monetary control, so that's one possibility. These coins were struck in the spring of 1792 and by decrees of the city of Paris and the central government (June & September 1792) they were demonetized, confiscated, and the factory closed. These were also distributed and used in Nimes where there was a factory branch. It's unusual to find these with the value clearly rendered in the strike. After searching for various silver issues of the Revolution I can say it is quite common to see them with unusual dark spots, and evidence that someone has tried to remove them. Obverse legend: LEFEVRE LESAGE ET COMPie Ngt A PARIS. Reverse legend around: ET AU DESSUS LAN 4 ME DE LA LIBERTE 1792 Reverse center: B.P. (Bon Pour - value) 10 SOLS A ECHANGER EN ASSIGNATS DE 50# The varieties are described in "MONNAIES DE CONFIANCE" by Reynaud (2nd ed. 2016) put this coin as the type with small '5' in 50 (Rx) and a dot at 6 o'clock (rather than 7) on the obverse and coin rotation. REYNAUD #17 d (KM Tn19).

French Revolution 1 Centime L'An 6

Moneta — Sat, 01 Apr 2017 15:16:58 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: French Revolutionary era 1st Republic decimal coinage, first year of issue (L'AN 6 = 1797 - 1798). Liberty Head type that re-appeared during the Revolution of 1848.

France - Louis XVI 12 Deniers - 1791 A

Moneta — Tue, 24 Jan 2017 16:33:50 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: A striking portrait of Louis XVI on this 12 Deniers piece issued as a new denomination during the short lived First Republic. One feature of this example is a dot before 1791, which is not seen in the KM specimen.

France - Louis XVI ECU - 1793

Moneta — Tue, 24 Jan 2017 16:15:25 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: This is a post execution issue that retained the royal portrait deep into the French Revolution. Head of Louis XVI the the left with legend: LOUIS XVI ROI DES FRANCOIS, with date below - 1793. Reverse features the new desgin by Dupre known as the Genius or 'Angel Writing' the latest French Constitution. This figure stands between a Fasces/Liberty Cap on the left and the national symbol, a Rooster on the right, with the mintmark 'A' for Paris. The Lyre on the left is and engravers Privy Mark that indicates Francois Bernier (1774 - 1793) was the engraver. Legend; REGNI DE LA LOI (Rule of Law or Reign by law). In exergue is the Revolutionary date system L'AN 5 DE LA LIBERTE. Edge legend raised 'LA NATION LA LOI ET LE LOI'. Like a majority of strikes in France at this period, there are 'adjustment marks' from the time of minting. In 1792, the well‐known French coin designer, Augustin Dupre, designed a beautiful new Gold Angel coin for King Louis XVI. But as the French Revolution erupted, Dupre's fortunes took a dramatic turn and he suddenly found himself sentenced to death at the guillotine. As legend has it, Dupre stood before the guillotine to be executed one stormy day and he pulled one of the Angel coins he had designed out of his pocket and rubbed it for good luck. At that moment, a bolt of lightning struck‐‐causing his execution to be postponed. Before it could be rescheduled, Augustin Dupre was granted a pardon. From that day on, he proclaimed that it was the lucky Angel coin which had literally saved his neck! Napoleon's Lucky Angel: Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte is said to have carried an Angel coin in his vest pocket throughout his steady rise to power in France. As Napoleon's empire grew, his Angel coin accompanied him on each heroic campaign. But legend tells us that, on the eve of a great battle in 1815, he reportedly flung his coin arrogantly into a river. The very next day, Napoleon was defeated in the Battle of Waterloo and forced into exile. Carried by Sea Captains, Generals and Heroes: In times of conflict and danger, Angel coins have long been believed to provide safety andprotection. Generals issued them to fighter pilots in both WWI and WWII for luck. Pilots in the Korean War, Vietnam, and Desert Storm were also known to carry Angel coins for good luck. Ship captains and fishermen are said to have refused to go to sea without one. These days, many rescue and police heroes have proclaimed the Angel's powers of luck and protection.