Moneta's Temple and Gallery

France - Caisse Bonne Foi 3 Sols 1791

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

by: Moneta

Description: A rare and uncirculated token issue of the French Revolutionary period of L'AN III (1791). Issued by the Caisse de Bonne Foi 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:

France - 5 Centimes Rejuvenation Fountain LAn 2

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

by: Moneta

Description: I believe this is an early French Revolution trial piece of 1791. I'm still looking for the detailed description of this coin. The Egyptian fountain statue emit the waters of restoration and a gentleman helps the poor citizen to drink of the essence of rejuvenation. More to follow. Stacks Bowers sale of May '23. These are rare but occasionally obtainable. PCGS AU cleaned.

Italy - Roman Republic Scudo 1799

Moneta — Thu, 05 Jan 2023 11:37:22 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: Roman Republic (1798 - 1799), one of the new and short lived republics established as a result of the French Revolutionary War period. Latin legend, OB: REPVBLICA ROMANA; Rx: SCVDO ROMANO. Engraver was Tommaso Mercandetti with his name appearing as T. MERCANDETTI on the under ground field in exergue.

France - 1792 5 Sols for Monneron, by M. Boulton

Moneta — Mon, 21 Mar 2022 13:44:37 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: A gorgeous example of Mazard 150, Reynaud 4E. In hand a far better coin than this photo shows. The surfaces are proof-like but I have to trust NGC that this is an MS64 BN. NGC MS 64 (proof-like) ESSAI - except Edge: LA. CONFIANCE. AUGMENTE. LA. VALEUR. Ooooo; Mazard# 150; Reynaud 4E, Essai sur flan bruni; Rev. QUI SE VEND (copper gilded in bronze by M. Boulton). Only specialized references mention this coin specifically, note edge lettering. Commonly described as made of bronze, I'm sure I've never heard of Matthew Boulton working in bronze. Assuredly, this is a copper coin that was 'bronzed' (gilded) by Boulton. Obverse Lettering: VIVRE LIBRES OU MOURIR, Pacte fédératif, 14 JUILLET. 1790 [Engraver: Augustin Dupré] Reverse Lettering: REVOLUTION FRANCAISE, MEDAILLE QUI SE VEND, CINQ-SOLS, A PARIS CHEZ MONNERON, (PATENTE) 1792

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

Mongolia - Che Guevara 1000 Togrog 2018

Moneta — Sun, 11 Jul 2021 14:49:16 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: Iconic revolutionary Che Guevara was undoubtedly one of the most significant and recognizable persons of the 20th century. Fighting side-by-side with Fidel Castro in the Cuban revolution, his portrait adorns the latest Mongolian coin in the "Revolutionaries" series. The series now includes Castro, Karl Marx, Gandi, and others. Customary for this series, the portrait is struck in smartminting© high relief. The amount of detail and sculpture like depths in the portrait are unparalleled. Selective coloring accents the Guevara’s facial features and brings the coin to life. Obverse: Emblem of the Bank of Mongolia; denomination. Inscription with traditional Mongolian alphabet. Lettering: Монгол Банк ᠮᠤᠩᠭᠤᠯ ᠤᠯᠤᠰ, 1000 ТӨГРӨГ MONGOLIA 1 oz 999 SILVER. Translation: The Bank of Mongolia, Monggol Ulus (Mongolia), 1000 Tögrög Reverse: Lettering: Che Guevara, 2018. Customary for this series, the portrait is struck in smartminting© high relief. The amount of detail and sculpture like depths in the portrait are unparalleled. Selective coloring accents the Guevara’s facial features and brings the coin to life. Lettering: Che Guevara 2018

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.

China - Fukien, Wuchang Uprising 20 Cents, 1912

Moneta — Mon, 23 Nov 2020 11:33:56 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: China, Republic Provincial Coinage of the Wuhan or Wuchang Uprising. Central ob. legend: Chung-hua Yuan-pao; Rx: *MADE IN FOO-KIEN MINT* 1 MACE AND 4.4 CANDAREENS The Wuchang Uprising was an armed rebellion against the ruling Qing dynasty that took place in Wuchang (now Wuchang, District of Wuhan), Hubei, China on 10 October 1911. This was the beginning of the Xinhai Revolution that successfully overthrew China's last imperial dynasty. It was led by elements of the New Army, influenced by revolutionary ideas from Tongmenghui (see below). The uprising and the eventual revolution directly led to the downfall of the Qing dynasty with almost three centuries of imperial rule, and the establishment of the Republic of China (ROC), which commemorates the anniversary of the uprising's starting date of 10 October as the National Day of the Republic of China. The uprising originated from popular unrest about a railway crisis, and the planning process took advantage of the situation. On 10 October 1911, the New Army stationed in Wuchang launched an assault on the residence of the Viceroy of Huguang. The viceroy, Ruicheng, quickly fled from the residence and the revolutionaries soon took control of the entire city. The Tongmenghui (or T'ung-meng Hui, variously translated as Chinese United League, United League, Chinese Revolutionary Alliance, Chinese Alliance, United Allegiance Society, 中國同盟會) was a secret society and underground resistance movement founded by Sun Yat-sen, Song Jiaoren, and others in Tokyo, Japan, on 20 August 1905. It was formed from the merger of multiple Chinese revolutionary groups in the late Qing dynasty. In August 1912, the Tongmenghui formed the nucleus of the Kuomintang, the governing political party of the republic. [Wikipedia] The flags in history and on the coins of this period are many and interesting. The '5 Colored' flag, the one on the right that defines the 5/6 stripe varieties, was the first flag of the Republic of China (1912 - 1928). It was widely flown even before the Republic of China in Shanghai and eastern parts of north China until 1928. The stripe representation (top to bottom): red for Han Chinese, yellow for Manchus, blue for Mongols, white for Hui and black for Tibetans. Later used by the Japanese puppet states of the East Hebei Autonomous Government, the Chinese Provisional Government and Reformed Government of China. It's also found on many of the struck coins of the Republic. The flag on the left is the Flag of the Wuchang uprising (1911 - 1912) and later an army flag of the Republic of China (1911-28). Background is red with a 9 armed black star patten tipped with gold (yellow) dots with a ring of center gold dots and sometimes showing a central gold dot.

Republic Fukien 1 Cash Wuhan Uprising 1912

Moneta — Mon, 21 Sep 2020 16:11:28 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: QING: Republic, AE cash (2.49g), Fujian Province, H-24.4, fu jian tong bao // aka Wuchang Uprising and Five-colored flag either side of hole, VF, R, ex Jim Farr Collection. Likely cast only in the year 1912 during the first year of the Republic of China. The historical importance of this short series of cast coins, in an age of struck coins, can not be underestimated. The Wuchang Uprising was an armed rebellion against the ruling Qing dynasty that took place in Wuchang (now Wuchang District of Wuhan), Hubei, China on 10 October 1911; this was the beginning of the Xinhai Revolution that successfully overthrew China's last imperial dynasty. It was led by elements of the New Army, influenced by revolutionary ideas from Tongmenghui (see below). The uprising and the eventual revolution directly led to the downfall of the Qing dynasty with almost three centuries of imperial rule, and the establishment of the Republic of China (ROC), which commemorates the anniversary of the uprising's starting date of 10 October as the National Day of the Republic of China. The uprising originated from popular unrest about a railway crisis, and the planning process took advantage of the situation. On 10 October 1911, the New Army stationed in Wuchang launched an assault on the residence of the Viceroy of Huguang. The viceroy, Ruicheng, quickly fled from the residence and the revolutionaries soon took control of the entire city. The Tongmenghui (or T'ung-meng Hui, variously translated as Chinese United League, United League, Chinese Revolutionary Alliance, Chinese Alliance, United Allegiance Society, 中國同盟會) was a secret society and underground resistance movement founded by Sun Yat-sen, Song Jiaoren, and others in Tokyo, Japan, on 20 August 1905. It was formed from the merger of multiple Chinese revolutionary groups in the late Qing dynasty. In August 1912, the Tongmenghui formed the nucleus of the Kuomintang, the governing political party of the republic. [Wikipedia] The flags in history and on the coins of this period are many and interesting. The '5 Colored' flag, the one on the right that defines the 5/6 stripe varieties, was the first flag of the Republic of China (1912 - 1928). It was widely flown even before the Republic of China in Shanghai and eastern parts of north China until 1928. The stripe representation (top to bottom): red for Han Chinese, yellow for Manchus, blue for Mongols, white for Hui and black for Tibetans. Later used by the Japanese puppet states of the East Hebei Autonomous Government, the Chinese Provisional Government and Reformed Government of China. It's also found on many of the struck coins of the Republic. The flag on the left is the Flag of the Wuchang uprising (1911 - 1912) and later an army flag of the Republic of China (1911-28). Background is red with a 9 armed black star patten tipped with gold (yellow) dots with a ring of center gold dots and sometimes showing a central gold dot.

China Rep. Fujian (Fukien) Wuhan Uprising 2 Cash - 5 Stripes

Moneta — Sun, 05 Jul 2020 10:02:39 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: REPUBLIC OF CHINA: AE 2 cash. This is an unusual type as a cast coin of Fukien (Fujian) featuring a reverse bearing flags of the Chinese Republic, formed in 1912. These issues tend to be crude and when in AU condition they are quite rough, center hole is round. This 2 Cash piece, of which there are 5 and 6 stripe r. flag varieties, is the 5 stripe variety. Hartill #24.5 (rarity 7); KM #375. There is also a 1 Cash of the same type, scarcer than the 2 Cash, and only found in a six stripe variety. OB: Fu Jian tong bao; RX: Er Wen (2 Cash). Fu Jian Tong Bao // Wuchang Uprising and Five-colored flags either side,'er wen' (two cash) above and below central hole, 5 stripes on flag variety. Likely cast only in the year 1912 during the first year of the Republic of China. The historical importance of this short series of cast coins, in an age of struck coins, can not be underestimated. The Wuchang Uprising was an armed rebellion against the ruling Qing dynasty that took place in Wuchang (now Wuchang District of Wuhan), Hubei, China on 10 October 1911; this was the beginning of the Xinhai Revolution that successfully overthrew China's last imperial dynasty. It was led by elements of the New Army, influenced by revolutionary ideas from Tongmenghui (see below). The uprising and the eventual revolution directly led to the downfall of the Qing dynasty with almost three centuries of imperial rule, and the establishment of the Republic of China (ROC), which commemorates the anniversary of the uprising's starting date of 10 October as the National Day of the Republic of China. The uprising originated from popular unrest about a railway crisis, and the planning process took advantage of the situation. On 10 October 1911, the New Army stationed in Wuchang launched an assault on the residence of the Viceroy of Huguang. The viceroy, Ruicheng, quickly fled from the residence and the revolutionaries soon took control of the entire city. The Tongmenghui (or T'ung-meng Hui, variously translated as Chinese United League, United League, Chinese Revolutionary Alliance, Chinese Alliance, United Allegiance Society, 中國同盟會) was a secret society and underground resistance movement founded by Sun Yat-sen, Song Jiaoren, and others in Tokyo, Japan, on 20 August 1905. It was formed from the merger of multiple Chinese revolutionary groups in the late Qing dynasty. In August 1912, the Tongmenghui formed the nucleus of the Kuomintang, the governing political party of the republic. [Wikipedia] The flags in history and on the coins of this period are many and interesting. The '5 Colored' flag, the one on the right that defines the 5/6 stripe varieties, was the first flag of the Republic of China (1912 - 1928). It was widely flown even before the Republic of China in Shanghai and eastern parts of north China until 1928. The stripe representation (top to bottom): red for Han Chinese, yellow for Manchus, blue for Mongols, white for Hui and black for Tibetans. Later used by the Japanese puppet states of the East Hebei Autonomous Government, the Chinese Provisional Government and Reformed Government of China. It's also found on many of the struck coins of the Republic. The flag on the left is the Flag of the Wuchang uprising (1911 - 1912) and later an army flag of the Republic of China (1911-28). Background is red with a 9 armed black star patten tipped with gold (yellow) dots with a ring of center gold dots and sometimes showing a central gold dot.

Yugoslavia - 50 Dinara 1955

Moneta — Sat, 04 Jul 2020 10:41:30 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: This bold coin is the highest denomination coin of the short lived (coins for 1953 - 1955) Federal People's Republic of Yugoslavia. It combines the agricultural and industrial elements often found in socialist country symbols and icons. Marshal Broz Tito lead a revolution to abolish the monarchy and eventually led to this republic which was soon replaced by the Socialist Federal Republic. There was a gap of 10 years between this coin and the first coin struck for the SFR in 1965.

France - Revolution 2 Sols - Hercules

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

by: Moneta

Description: REVOLUTION COINAGE / CONFIANCE (MONNAIES DE…) Monneron de 2 sols à l'Hercule 1792 Birmingham, Soho 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/ Mint struck at Soho in a regular planchet. Catalog: Maz.163 Br.220a Br.220a BOUCHETR.52/1 Weight: 13.98 g. Not physically in the Moneta Museum. Very Rare!

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. 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 left below appear the reverses' designer 'd'op GATTEAUX.' In exergue "1789 m 1989" with privy mark cornucopia 1 *, below.

Russia - RSFSR Hammer & Plow

Moneta — Sat, 17 Nov 2018 10:09:01 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: Before the Hammer & Sickle was adopted as an appropriate symbol for the vanguard of Marxism (Socialism and Communism) the original proposal was for the Hammer and Plow. After a search of many years I finally found an example in numismatic form. The reverse has been described as Lenin, presumably reentering Russia through Finland. The obverse legend is: "Comrades! Lets tell all the world about Socialism! [7.11.1918.; Медаль СССР - Оповестим Мир о Социализме] This very scarce medal was issued on the upcoming 1st Anniversary of the October 1917 Revolution. Made of bronze, it's 6.3g 28mm.

Italy - Roman Republic Pergola 1798

Moneta — Thu, 06 Sep 2018 20:59:27 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: Part of my French Revolutionary Wars series, however, this rare coin is not in the Moneta Museum. Coin photo is from VL Nummis Auctions, Lot 617, Sep 9, 2018. Their description: Italian States Pergola Firts Roman Republic (1798-1799) 2 Baiocchi 1798 Pergola Muntoni 67, Berman 3192. PCGS AU50

Siege of Maastricht 100 Stuivers - 1794

Moneta — Fri, 20 Jul 2018 18:05:44 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: This short siege issue during the French Revolutionary Wars was issued by the Austrian defenders of Maastricht in the Austrian Netherlands. It was the Prince of Hesse-Kassel who had this siege coin issued. The siege of Maastricht of 19 September-4 November 1794 saw the French capture one of the last Austrian-held strongholds close to the Austrian Netherlands, completing the French conquest of the area. The Austrian position in the Austrian Netherlands began to fall apart after the French victory at Fleurus on 26 June. The Austrian army retreated back to Brussels, and then east to take up a position on the Meuse, while the French concentrated on recovering their border fortresses, lost earlier in the year. Only in August did the French begin to threaten the new Austrian position, and the campaign did not get underway seriously until September. The start date of the siege is unclear, because when the French first approached the city it was part of the Austrian front line on the Meuse, defended by General Clerfayt. Perhaps the best date to adopt is 19 September, the day after Clerfayt was forced to retreat from the Meuse by the French victory in the battle of the Outhre (18 September). This left the 8,000 strong garrison of Maastricht isolated, and the French imposed a blockade. The main French army, including General Kléber's divisions, then moved east to attack the Austrian lines on the Roer (battle of the Roer, 2 October 1794). Only after that battle was Kléber free to return to Maastricht to conduct a more vigorous siege. Kléber began by summoning the town to surrender, but the governor, the Prince of Hesse-Kassel refused. At this early stage in the siege the French lacked a siege train, and Kléber was not provided with adequate guns until 23 October. The bombardment itself began on 1 November. By now it was clear that there was little chance of a relief army appearing, and on 4 November the city surrendered.

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 LAN4 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).

Netherlands - Batavian Republic 1G 1795

Moneta — Sat, 04 Feb 2017 11:30:17 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: The French Revolutionary Wars progressed into the Netherlands after the fall of resistance in Luxembourg and the defeat of Prussia & allies there. The Batavian Republic was established over portions of the Netherlands, which was already considered a republic. The obverse legend is a bit different than KM's SCWC for the 1700's, so I'm seeking a detailed attribution for this piece. Obverse legend: MO : ARG : ORD : FAED: BELG : HOLL; except for the FAED (w/'AE' conjoined) everything matches KM# 8.2 but the FAED should be FOE. The FAED is listed for KM# 18 but that is considered a pattern by some experts and the denomination should be 'GL' rather than just the 'G'. Reverse legend: HAC NITIMVR HANC TVEMVR; in an apparent error by KM, all 1 G catalog listings show NITEMVR while the poor photo shows the legend above.

Cuba - Che Guevara Peso

Moneta — Sun, 22 Jan 2017 14:59:57 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: Part of the vast product of Cuba, which I believe are all struck in Spain (let me know my error). Pure copper issue of the 40th Anniversary of his Death, which couldn't have come too soon for his enemies. Still worshiped as an icon of the Communist Revolution.

Siege of Mantua - 1799

Moneta — Sun, 18 Dec 2016 15:44:42 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: Part of the French Revolutionary Wars. Napoleon had occupied Mantua in northern Italy during the first siege in 1797. Now the Austrians were back with 40k troops vs the French forces of 10k holding Mantua. The Siege of Mantua (1799) was a four-month effort by the Austrian army to regain a presence in northern Italy after being excluded from that region by Napoleon Bonaparte through the successful French Siege of Mantua in 1797. In April 1799, the Austrians placed a military blockade around Mantua as part of the War of the Second Coalition with the intent of withering the French by attrition. While the diminishing food supplies and losses weakened the French army, the Austrians received reinforcements and attacked on 4 July 1799. By the end of the month, the French agreed to surrender. Therefore, this coin was crudely cast of brass and lead during the very short period of July 1799 (AN VII). This shows exceptional execution and preservation, these were also cast in 2 & 5 Soldo denominations. Obverse has a fasces topped with a Liberty Cap; legend is: ASSEDIO. D.-I. MANTOVA. Reverse legend is UN SOLDO DI MILAN.

Helvetian Republic - 1800 Rappen

Moneta — Sat, 08 Oct 2016 14:58:58 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: Otherwise know as the Helvetic Repubic. This is the only type of the short lived Republic showing traditional revolutionary symbols of fasces w/axe and Liberty hat. OB: "HELVET: REPUBL" (with drop leg of 'R' missing). In Swiss history, the Helvetic Republic (1798–1803) represented an early attempt to impose a central authority over Switzerland, which until then had consisted of self-governing cantons united by a loose military alliance (and ruling over subject territories such as Vaud). The French invaded Switzerland and turned it into an ally known as the "Helvetic Republic." The interference with localism and traditional liberties was deeply resented, although some modernizing reforms took place. Resistance was strongest in the more traditional Catholic bastions, with armed uprisings breaking out in spring 1798 in the central part of Switzerland. The French Army suppressed the uprisings but support for revolutionary ideals steadily declined, as the Swiss resented their loss of local democracy, the new taxes, the centralization and the hostility to religion. Nonetheless, there were long-term impacts. The Republic being named Helvetic after the Helvetii, the Gaulish inhabitants of the Swiss Plateau in antiquity, was not an innovation; rather, the Swiss Confederacy had occasionally been dubbed Republica Helvetiorum in humanist Latin since the 17th century, and Helvetia, the Swiss national allegory, made her first appearance in 1672. (Wikipedia)

Corresponding Society 1795

Moneta — Sat, 08 Oct 2016 14:38:02 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: Ireland - Middlesex Half Penny of 1795. London Corresponding Society. Obverse shows a group of Society members standing over a fasces on the ground. Thomas Hardy was the Secretary to this Society. These are Skidmore made tokens. It is probable that these were never struck by the Society’s order, but were made for sale. Reverse: "United For A Reform Of Parliament." Edge: "payable At Dublin, Cork Or Belfast .XX. The London Corresponding Society was a Radical organization based in London, England, with a membership consisting primarily of artisans, tradesmen, and shopkeepers. At its peak, the society boasted roughly 3,000 dues-paying members who shared the goal of reforming the British political system. Formed in 1792 by Thomas Hardy, the society's key mission was to ensure universal suffrage (voting rights for all men) for British men and annual parliaments. Due to the perceived French revolutionary influence on the society and its calls for a relatively radical reformation, promising widespread upheaval, the government of William Pitt the Younger bitterly opposed it, accusing it on two occasions of plotting to assassinate the King, and putting its key leaders on trial in 1794 for treason. However, due to the transparent falsity of the government’s claims, those leaders, including Hardy, John Thelwall, and John Horne Tooke, were all acquitted. After exerting "undue influence" on the European political climate in the last decade of the 18th century, the LCS and other organizations like it were outlawed by a 1799 Parliamentary Act, and efforts to maintain an underground organization were stymied by their outlaw status and financial troubles and mismanagement.

Siege of Mainz - 1793

Moneta — Sun, 04 Sep 2016 14:11:07 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: The siege of Mainz of 14 April-23 July 1793 saw a Prussian army recapture this key city on the west bank of the Rhine, which had fallen into French hands after a three day long siege in 1792. At that point the city had been poorly defended, but in 1793 it contained a garrison of 23,000 men under the command of the engineer François d'Oyré. The city was surrounded by the Allies on 30 March, but was not invested until 14 April. The Prussians then took two months to prepare their siege works, and did not begin bombarding the outer defences until 5 June. The main bombardment began on 18 June. The garrison held out for a month, before on 17 July a council of war decided to open negotiations, despite d'Oyré wanting to fight on. Negotiations began on the following day, and on 23 July the defenders accepted the Prussian terms. They were allowed to march out of Mainz with the honours of war, on the condition that they did not serve against France's external enemies for one year. The Convention refused to accept these terms, and ordered all of the officers involved to return to Paris for trial. Amongst the officers involved in the surrender was General Kléber, who had been trapped in the city. Many of the troops involved were sent west (including Kléber), where they helped to put down the revolt in the Vendée. The French attempted to recapture Mainz in a third siege (14 December 1794-29 October 1795) but this ended in failure. The city was surrendered to France in the treaty of Campo Formio of 17 October 1797, and again in the peace of Luneville in 1801, and remained in French hands until 1814. The same design is also found on 1 Sol and 5 Sol pieces, all in copper.

Siege of Luxembourg 1795

Moneta — Sun, 04 Sep 2016 13:47:54 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: After a siege of over seven months the forces of Revolutionary France finally convinced the the people of Luxembourg to demand capitulation by the Hapsburg forces defending the fortress. The fortress was famous as the most secure in northern Europe, only Gibraltar was considered to have stronger defenses. The punishment the revolutionary forces of France were able to inflict caused the inhabitants to give up. The fortresses of Luxembourg and Mainz were the last hold-out areas west of the Rhine River and the "Committee of Public Safety" in Paris wanted a final defeat. With the fall of Luxembourg French revolutionary armies were able to march north and establish the Batavian Republic, thus removing the Netherlands from British and Prussian influence. F II refers to Frans II. These coins are very scarce with the other denomination (72 asses in silver), being very rare. The date on this 1 Sol piece is 1795 although it can appear to be 1796 in some light situations. The coin, like many siege pieces, is cast. KM lists it as copper but this example appears to be brass. 1 SOL, 1795, KM 19; 30 - 31 mm at 16.05 g. VF for type.

Earl Howe & The Glorious 1st of June

Moneta — Sun, 21 Aug 2016 14:38:39 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: It's hard to over emphasize the importance of the Howe brothers to the history of the American Revolution and to that of French Revolution. Depicted here is Richard Howe (aka "Black Dick"), First Lord Admiral, and instrumental in British naval action against America. His brother, William Howe, was a general and responsible for the occupation of New York. The Glorious First of June naval engagement (1794) pitted the Channel Fleet against French forces. While the British considered this a victory with thousands of French sailors captured or killed, the French also considered it victory because the cargo of much needed victuals reached French port unharmed. Hampshire Emsworth DH-16. OB: Admiral Earl Howe "Earl Howe & the Glorious First of June." Rx: Three masted ship (HMS Queen Charlotte, 100 gun, 1790-1800), "Pro Bono Publico" Edge: "Current Every Where" For great history of the battle and Earl Howe see these links: http://militaryhistory.about.com/od/navalbattles16001800/p/glorious-first-of-june.htm http://militaryhistory.about.com/od/naval/p/Royal-Navy-Admiral-Richard-Howe-1st-Earl-Howe.htm

France - Hercules Grp. 1848 Revolution

Moneta — Sun, 20 Mar 2016 20:46:36 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: With the advent of the French Second Republic of 1848 - 51, the mint revived the design of the Hercules Group first seen in An 10 (1801). As part of the group, the allegorical figure of France holds the masonic level. I know Hercules symbolized strength and is seen in the private coinage of the Monnerons during the French Revolution and the Boulton coinage of 1792 and on. I'll have to do some further research on this 2 year type. It was replaced with the Ceres Head issues. Paris struck these on revived steam driven press (beginning in 1846) and they used sectional collared dies. The edge inscription is "DIEU PROTOGE LA FRANCE ***," this inscription was dropped for the for the 1849 A issue. I guess they initially forgot that they were supposed to be anti-church. This example is well preserved and very well struck with a fine wire rim on the reverse.

Piedmont - Subalpine Gaul 5 Francs

Moneta — Sun, 20 Mar 2016 16:14:21 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: Piedmont Republic was established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1798. By 1799 Austria and Russian forces overthrew the republic. Date is AN 10 which equates to 1801, I do not know the reason for the incongruity of the date. Obverse legend is GAULE SUBALPINE The instrument shown being held by the allegorical figure of France is a masons level and was also used as an angle measurement tool. It's a prominent symbol used during the French Revolution. The figure with 'France' is Eridania as the allegorical figure of the Piedmont. These were struck in AN9 or AN10. The Heart symbol is the mark of mintmaster Vittorio Modesto Paroletti at the mint in Turin Italy with 33k struck. The edge is engrailed with a leaf pattern around.

Italy - Piedmont Republic 2 Soldi, 1800

Moneta — Sun, 20 Mar 2016 15:58:31 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: NAZIONE PIEDMONTESE (OB) was established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1798. By 1799 Austria and Russian forces overthrew the republic. Date is AN9 which equates to 1800, I do not know the reason for the incongruity of the date. Reverse legend is LIBERTA - EGUAGLANZA. The instrument shown is a masons level and was also used as an angle measurement tool. It's a prominent symbol used during the French Revolution as is the Liberty Cap atop the level. These a very hard to locate in better condition.

Hungary - War of Independence - 1849

Moneta — Sun, 20 Mar 2016 15:42:45 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: Revolutionary war of Independence of 1848 - 1849 issue of 3 (Harom) Krajczar of the usual crude type. Minted in 1849 with NB mintmark (Nagybania, Transylvania), it is a one year type of Franz Joseph I.

THE END OF PAIN

Moneta — Sat, 12 Mar 2016 17:59:52 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: One could write a whole volume on the political tokens of Great Britain just after the American Revolution and during the French Revolution. I have several presented here that are related, for example see "Pigs Meat", where the name of Thomas Paine is mentioned. Here Mr. Paine is alluded to as PAIN hanging from gibbet. Middlesex, Spence's DH 833a The inscription the END OF PAIN is a pun on Thomas Paine’s name. He was a radical who was hated by most Englishmen of the 1790’s. The obverse portrayal of Paine’s end would be welcome by all loyal subjects. The reverse inscription is derived from Paine’s book entitled The Rights of Man, which was published in 1791. January 21, 1793, on the right page of the book, is the date that King Louis XVI of France was executed. The implication is that Paine’s ideas contributed to Louis’ death and would do the same for the English king. While listed under Spence’s works by Dalton and Hamer, it is clear that Thomas Spence was a revolutionary and would not have created this token. The royalist sentiment suggested by this token clearly indicates that Spence was not responsible for its design. It is much more likely to have been made by loyalists who wanted to capitalize on anti-radical fervor in those times. There were riots in 1791 in Birmingham and anti-Paine tokens were produced as a result. Researchers believe that Peter Skidmore was responsible for the piece despite its earlier attribution to Spence. Since Thomas Paine lived in the USA, where his book "Common Sense" contributed to the growing movement for independence from England, he was venerated here and well as in France where he defended the French Revolution against Burke and helped the French cause as well. Conder tokens, also known as 18th Century Provincial Tokens are a form of privately minted token coinage struck and used during the latter part of the 18th Century and the early part of the 19th Century in England, Wales, Scotland, and Ireland. They were made because of the need for small denomination coinage for everyday transactions. Because the government did little to relieve the coinage shortage, private businesses and merchants issued tokens beginning in 1787 to pay workers at the Parys Mine Company. Within a few years, millions of tokens were struck and were in common use throughout Great Britain. Comprised mostly of cent and half cent denominations, the Conders had a few thousand varying designs. Collecting tokens became a national pastime. They were originally indexed by James Conder and later by Dalton and Hamer in their book, The Provincial Token Coinage of the 18th Century. This it a plain edge variety.

Naples - Parthenopean Rep. 1799

Moneta — Sat, 12 Mar 2016 16:54:03 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: This fine and scarce piece is part of my series related to the French Revolution inspired revolutions among the Italian States. In this case the short lived Parthenopean Republic of Naples. Obverse legend is: 'REPUBBLICA NAPOLITANA' with fasces, spear, ax and Liberty Cap. The reverse legend around is 'ANNO SETTIMO DELLA LIBERTA.' which equates to AN7 (1799). Inner wreath legend is: 'TOR/NESI/SEI', or 6 Tornesi, without the ZN mintmark (rare). Edge is engrailed with what appears to be slashed thru circles. The history of the revolution here is quite brutal, short, and involved the British Navy.

French Revolution - Lefevre 20 Sols

Moneta — Sat, 12 Mar 2016 16:31:12 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: 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 with evenly spaced obverse legend. 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).

French Revolution - Lefevre 20 Sols

Moneta — Sat, 12 Mar 2016 16:31:12 -0800

Austria 6 Kreuzer 1848 Revolution

Moneta — Sat, 12 Mar 2016 13:36:56 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: Austro-Hungarian Empire, Franz Joseph I. Besides the copper 2 Kreuzer, found in the Museum also, is this silver 6 Kreuzer struck at mints A,B, & C, for the short Austrian Revolution of 1848 and 1849. This is a wonderful example of only 1 of 2 types struck by Austria for the Revolution years of 1848 & 1849. The 'C' mintmark is uncertain to me now, but it's most likely in Transylvania (Hermannstadt or Cluy). There is a series revolutionary issues of Austria that include the 2 Kreuzer (elsewhere in the Museum) and the very scarce 20 Kreuzer of 1848 GM (KM2209, KM has moved it to Mantua, Italy) of General J. Radetzky struck in Mantua during the battles with rebels in Venice and Lombardy (see Hungary or Mantua in some references).

China Rep. Fukien (Fujian) 2 Cash 1912 - 6 Stripes

Moneta — Sat, 20 Feb 2016 20:11:34 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: REPUBLIC OF CHINA: AE 2 cash. This is an unusual type as a cast coin of Fukien (Fujian) featuring a reverse bearing flags of the Chinese Republic, formed in 1912. These issues tend to be crude and when in AU condition they are quite rough, center hole is round. This 2 Cash piece, of which there are 5 and 6 stripe r. flag varieties, is the scarcer 6 stripe type. Hartill #24.6 (rarity 7); KM #375.1 OB: Fu Chien tong bao; RX: Er Wen (2 Cash). Fu Jian Tong Bao // Wuchang Uprising and Five-colored flags either side, er wen (two cash) above and below central hole, 6 stripes on flag variety. Likely cast only in the year 1912 during the first year of the Republic of China. The historical importance of this short series of cast coins, in an age of struck coins, can not be underestimated. The Wuchang Uprising was an armed rebellion against the ruling Qing dynasty that took place in Wuchang (now Wuchang District of Wuhan), Hubei, China on 10 October 1911, which was the beginning of the Xinhai Revolution that successfully overthrew China's last imperial dynasty. It was led by elements of the New Army, influenced by revolutionary ideas from Tongmenghui (see below). The uprising and the eventual revolution directly led to the downfall of the Qing dynasty with almost three centuries of imperial rule, and the establishment of the Republic of China (ROC), which commemorates the anniversary of the uprising's starting date of 10 October as the National Day of the Republic of China. The uprising originated from popular unrest about a railway crisis, and the planning process took advantage of the situation. On 10 October 1911, the New Army stationed in Wuchang launched an assault on the residence of the Viceroy of Huguang. The viceroy Ruicheng quickly fled from the residence, and the revolutionaries soon took control of the entire city. The Tongmenghui (or T'ung-meng Hui, variously translated as Chinese United League, United League, Chinese Revolutionary Alliance, Chinese Alliance, United Allegiance Society, 中國同盟會) was a secret society and underground resistance movement founded by Sun Yat-sen, Song Jiaoren, and others in Tokyo, Japan, on 20 August 1905. It was formed from the merger of multiple Chinese revolutionary groups in the late Qing dynasty. In August 1912, the Tongmenghui formed the nucleus of the Kuomintang, the governing political party of the republic. [Wikipedia] The flags in history and on the coins of this period are many and interesting. The '5 Colored' flag, the one on the right that defines the 5/6 stripe varieties, was the first flag of the Republic of China (1912 - 1928). It was widely flown even before the Republic of China in Shanghai and eastern parts of north China until 1928. The stripe representation (top to bottom): red for Han Chinese, yellow for Manchus, blue for Mongols, white for Hui and black for Tibetans. Later used by the Japanese puppet states of the East Hebei Autonomous Government, the Chinese Provisional Government and Reformed Government of China. It's also found on many of the struck coins of the Republic. The flag on the left is the Flag of the Wuchang uprising (1911 - 1912) and later an army flag of the Republic of China (1911-28). Background is red with a 9 armed black star patten tipped with gold (yellow) dots with a ring of center gold dots and sometimes showing a central gold dot.

UK - Pig's Meat by T. Spencer

Moneta — Sat, 20 Feb 2016 16:43:06 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: 1795 Thomas Paine Pig Halfpenny 18th C. Political/Satirical Token issued by Thomas Spence. The obverse shows a wild pig trampling upon a crown, mace & crosier (King, Parliament, Church) a large liberty cap is above with the legend, "PIGS MEAT PUBLISHED BY T SPENCE LONDON." as a banner in the pig's mouth The reverse is legend is " NOTED ADVOCATES FOR THE RIGHTS OF MAN"; "THOs SPENCE, SIR THOs MORE, THOs PAINE." This one is a halfpenny and measures 29mm. Several varieties can be found, some with the date of 1795; the basic design can also be found in the smaller farthing denomination. This one is especially nice with with a nice even brown tone and plenty of pigs hair details. We should all be familiar with a book written by Thomas Paine titled, "Rights of Man" published in 1791. This token reflects the political sentiment of the time. Because Thomas Paine is mentioned by name on this token, it is considered as American political collectible and listed as such in American coin catalogs. This is more true because Thomas Paine also wrote "Common Sense" which is THE book that inspired people to support the Independence movement which did lead to Independence for the United States of America. The "Rights of Man", in two parts, heavily influenced events in France and their Constitution, which lead to the French Revolution.

French Revolution - Clemanson, 1792

Moneta — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 12:19:19 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: These present some iconic images associated with the French Revolution: Fasces, Liberty cap, flags and cannon. These are central pieces to the Monnaies De Confiance series of necessity tokens, in the face of near worthless paper assignats several tokens were issued for various reasons, not least of which were to pay employees. These were crudely struck in Lyon from brass and copper, this is the copper issue. See here also a much more worn brass issue. Also see the Monneron Brothers for the bulk of this French Revolution series. OB: CLEMANSON, ET Cp Nvs PLACE CONFORT ALYON (around); LAN VI DELA LIBERTE '- (in exergue) RX: VIVRE LIBRE OU MOURIR (Live Free or Die, around); MEDAILLE - DE CONFIANCE DE 2 S- A ECHANGER CONTRE DES ASSIGNAT ET- MANDAT DETOUTE VALEUR - M DCC XCII (1792).

French Revolution - Clemanson 2 Sols, 1792

Moneta — Sun, 14 Feb 2016 12:14:32 -0800

by: Moneta

Description: These present some iconic images associated with the French Revolution: Fasces, Liberty cap, flags and cannon. These are central pieces to the Monnaies De Confiance series of necessity tokens, in the face of near worthless paper assignats several tokens were issued for various reasons, not least of which were to pay employees. These were crudely struck in Lyon from brass and copper, this is the brass issue. See here also a much better copper issue. Also see the Monneron Brothers for the bulk of this French Revolution series. OB: CLEMANSON, ET Cp Nvs PLACE CONFORT ALYON (around); LAN VI DELA LIBERTE '- (in exergue) RX: VIVRE LIBRE OU MOURIR (Live Free or Die, around); MEDAILLE - DE CONFIANCE DE 2 S- A ECHANGER CONTRE DES ASSIGNAT ET- MANDAT DETOUTE VALEUR - M DCC XCII (1792).

Peru Tupac Amaru II 50 Soles - 1971

Moneta — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 13:15:21 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: 150th Anniversary of Independence. The coin also celebrates Tupac Amaru II who began the independence movement, which eventually lead to independence and was an inspiration to all of Latin America for independence from Spain. See the link below in order to get a history of these events and a numismatic legacy. This coin was not mentioned in the article, so I included her because the history is little known and important to South America. This one year type has a mintage of 100k. NI linked article - Coin of the Month: http://numis.org/coins-of-the-month/

Cuba - Che Guevara 3 Pesos

Moneta — Fri, 07 Aug 2015 18:21:25 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: The famous icon of revolution - CHE! His portrait appears far more often than that of Castro on many difference series of coins from Cuba. I suppose this was to suppress the 'cult of personality' that purist Communists try to avoid, North Korea excepted. The type appeared first in 1990 on copper nickel, for 1992 and 1995 the coin became nickel plated steel.

Cuba Peso - Castro 1993

Moneta — Fri, 07 Aug 2015 18:08:37 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: 40th Anniversary of the Attack on Moncada Barracks by Cuban revolutionaries on July 26, 1953. Fidel Castro and others served jail time, which sort of contradicts the supposed evils of the Marti government, because government troops were killed. Reverse features an impressive portrait of Castro in uniform (sides reversed in photo). These are copper plated bronze, which is a little unusual. There are two types, this being the second type with flat rim, the other having a beveled rim and a little less weight. KM shows an equal value for both. Cuban coins post US embargo (early '60's) are hard to find, I found a few coming out of Spain.

Iran - Khomeini Azadi

Moneta — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 14:51:34 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: Islamic Republic bullion coinage issued by the National Bank of Iran. Obverse features a mosque with the legends "The Central Bank of the Islamic Republic of Iran" and (perhaps) "Spring of Freedom". Reverse features a facing 3/4 portrait of Khomeini. Another type celebrating him shows a left facing portrait. Ruhollah Mostafavi Moosavi Khomeini 24 September 1902 - 3 June 1989), was an Iranian religious leader and politician, and leader of the 1979 Iranian Revolution which saw the overthrow of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the Shah of Iran. Following the revolution, Khomeini became the country's Supreme Leader, a position created in the constitution as the highest ranking political and religious authority of the nation, which he held until his death. After coming to power, Khomeini ordered the destruction of Reza Shah's mausoleum, and executed opposition members by the tens of thousands. Khomeini's killing spree included 1988 executions of Iranian political prisoners and Chain murders of Iran among others. Khomeini used religion to gain and justify his political power. Khomeini's close circle created a myth around him and elevated him to God-like status.

France - Napoleon I - 40 Fr, 1st Year

Moneta — Sat, 11 Oct 2014 14:12:02 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: The era of Napoleon I, following the French Revolution, used three date formats. The FIRST YEAR issue used the Revolutionary dating system with Roman numerals. This one year type is seen here with AN XI as the issue year (~1803). The next issue year bore the date AN 12, using Arabic numbers rather than Roman numerals. Later still, in 1806, the coin date system was changed again to a familiar western system. Years are counted since the establishment of the first French Republic on 22 September 1792. That day became 1 Vendemiaire of the year 1 of the Republic. (However, the Revolutionary Calendar was not introduced until 24 November 1793.) So the dates do not easily correspond to today's western date system.

Poland - Revolution 1831

Moneta — Sat, 27 Sep 2014 22:27:29 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: Revolution of 1830 - 1831 against Russian occupation. Scarce, especially for better grades. One year type, varieties exist.

Allegiance 5 Sols - ROMAN NUMERALS

Moneta — Sat, 27 Sep 2014 20:26:38 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: This token 5 Sols was minted in Birmingham England. Late in 1791 Matthew Boulton, utilizing his newly invented steam driven coin presses, was commissioned by the Monneron Brothers of Paris France to produce 1, 2 and 5 Sols pieces in great quantity at his Soho Mint near Birmingham. According to various sources, the total weight of tokens produced was in excess of 70 tons. These 'monnaies de necessite' were to be used to remedy the lack of specie which plagued France during the early revolutionary years. The technical and aesthetic quality of the tokens was far superior to the bronze coins of the time. Obverse - Soldiers swearing allegiance to personification of 'France', who holds a copy of the Constitution. Legend: "VIVRE LIBRES OU MOURIER." ("Live Free or Die"). In exergue: "XIIII JUILLET MDCCXC" (14 July 1790) - This is, no doubt, the earliest of the Allegiance 5 Sols series with this ROMAN NUMERAL date. Very Scarce despite the fact that KM equates it with the rest of the series in value. I've seen dozens of the Arabic date types - this was the first Roman Numeral. Above the flags: "PACTE FEDERATIF" Reverse: "MEDAILLE DE CONFIANCE DE CINQ-SOLS REMBOURSABLE EN ASSIGNATS DE 50 L. ET AU DESSUS." In exergue: "L'AN III DE LA LIBERTE" Legend: "MONNERON FRERES NEGOCIANS A PARIS 1791." Edge reads: "DEPARTEMENS DE PARIS . RHONE ET LOIRE . DU GARD .". Mazard No. 142. There are several other types, this one much less common, some much rarer, including types struck in silver & gilt. The date L'AN III de la Liberte refers to the Revolutionary French Constitutional Calendar and translates as early 1792. The scene on the obverse shows the Oath of the Federation, the first anniversary of which was celebrated by the Festival of the Federation on 14 July 1790. The Festival, which included a mass held by the great French statesman Talleyrand (1754-1838), then the Bishop of Autun, also commemorated the taking of the Bastille and the bond uniting the nation, the king, and the people. In March 1792, the Monneron Brothers became bankrupt and one brother, Pierre, abandoned the business. Under the other brother, Augustin, the business recovered, but a law inacted 3rd May 1792 forbade the production of privately issued coinage. In September, a further decree also forbade the marketing of these 'Medailles de Confiance'. This emergency coinage only remained in circulation until the end of 1793. These are listed in KM under France Token issues of MONNAIES DE CONFIANCE (1791-92). VIEW & DOWNLOAD: Here is the link to the BEST article on Matthew Boulton, the Industrialization of Coinage, and the Monneron Brother's wonderful token coinage during the French Revolution: Boulton and the Monnerons - Margolis: /library/Boulton%20and%20the%20Monnerons%20-%20Margolis.pdf

France - French Revolution 1792

Moneta — Sat, 27 Sep 2014 16:43:39 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: FRANCE: AE 2 sols, 1792, Maz-332A, Reynaud-8a, Essai Monneron Monnaie de Confiance de 2 Sols, 1792, First year of the Republic, small owl behind Hercules seated breaking a scepter, legend LA SAGESSE GUIDE SA FORCE (Wisdom Directs its Force, the End of Despotism) below / pyramid against a cloudy sky, legend RESPUBLICA GALLICA ANNO I mo, AERE PERENNIS 1792, the French Republic Year I, coin turn, plain edge, chocolate dark brown surfaces, NGC graded MS62 BR. Very Scarce, interesting design and history. Probably meant as a trial strike by Matthew Boulton for the Monneron Brothers contract. Mazard lists this splendid design among Essais de Module et de Gravure. The pyramid is hauntingly familiar, recalling the Unfinished Pyramid on the Great Seal of the United States. Description and purchase from Steve Album, Auction 19, May 2014. Pyramid evokes the symbolism of the Masons and Illuminati involved in the French Revolution and later European revolutions as well as the Masonic connections of the Founders of the USA.

France - French Revolution 1792

Moneta — Sat, 27 Sep 2014 16:43:39 -0700

France - Revolution of 1848

Moneta — Sun, 18 May 2014 13:59:01 -0700

by: Moneta

Description: Another in my series of Revolution medals and coins. A gorgeous example of F. Montagny's work. Here, what may be Hercules sits, with broken sword, lamenting after slaying a serpent. Translated French is "Evil Genius Defeated 23 24 February 1848". Reverse, clearly Hercules with club, lion skin bundle of rods (fasces, Roman war implement and symbol of authority and later, unity in strength). The reverse legend translates as "Unity in Strength". This Hercules design appeared much earlier on a French jeton and was used again by Matthew Boulton for his two designs for the Monneron brothers' emergency Sols during the French Revolution. See Moneta Museum> France for examples. Edge is plain except for a tint hallmark an the word 'JUIVRE'.