In 2025,
Monnaie de Paris celebrates 250 years of the 11 Quai de Conti site.Under Louis
XV, the royal power chose the vast and prestigious grounds of the former Hôtel
de Conti and decided to establish the headquarters for minting its coins - a
qui...
250 years of 11 Quai de Conti 2025 paperweight medal Florentine bronze 68 mm
€95.00
Description
In 2025,
Monnaie de Paris celebrates 250 years of the 11 Quai de Conti site.
Under Louis
XV, the royal power chose the vast and prestigious grounds of the former Hôtel
de Conti and decided to establish the headquarters for minting its coins - a
quintessential royal prerogative.
From the
laying of the foundation stone in 1770 to the start of minting in 1775, it took
the architect Jacques-Denis Antoine just five years to build one of the most
beautiful neo-classical buildings in the capital. Monnaie de Paris was
officially installed on the Quai de Conti at an inauguration held under the
auspices of King Louis XVI.
Our craftman
THE ENGRAVER
Trained at the best schools, they have the years of experience behind them necessary to master all aspects of the craft. Using industrial oil-based modelling clay and working from a design executed freehand or with CAD software, they skilfully fashion a low relief model in order to enhance the engraving and the way it catches the light. They work alternately with concave and convex plaster moulds until satisfied they have achieved the best 3D rendering of the design.
THE MINTER
The first minters began to ply their trade in France when striking with a hammer appeared in the 4th century BC. Nowdays, minsters use press instead of a hammer. Their knowledge of dies, engraving and metals, and their expertise - passed seamlessly down from one generation to the next for centuries - guarantees the excellence of their work.
