Since 2008, Monnaie de Paris has honored the symbols of French numismatics over three years, revisiting them through the codes of contemporary numismatics. After paying tribute to the Napoleon III franc and the Louis d'Or, the Monnaie de Paris unv...
Golds of France - the Franc à cheval 100€ silver coin Circulating quality yeardate 2025
€100.00
Description
Since 2008, Monnaie de Paris has honored the symbols of French numismatics over three years, revisiting them through the codes of contemporary numismatics. After paying tribute to the Napoleon III franc and the Louis d'Or, the Monnaie de Paris unveils the latest instalment in this collection, dedicated to the Franc à cheval.
A reinterpretation of the historic Franc à cheval, this iconic coin is based on the gold denomination issued in December 1360 for King Jean II, known as “le Bon”. Featuring the monarch on horseback charging into battle, this coin was struck to celebrate the liberation of the sovereign who was captured by the English during the Hundred Years' War, hence the name “Franc” meaning “Free”.
The quatrefoils originally featured on the reverse of the historical coin have been modernized to stand alongside the sovereign. Accompanied by vegetal crosses, these decorative elements are evocative of the emerging Gothic style.
The reverse side of this new collection honors the three eras to which the three inspirations of this trilogy belong. Set within a hexagon, these three graphic friezes interpret the French flag in its heraldic form. The face value, the RF initials and the guarantee hallmarks complete the composition of this reverse.
The Collection
Launched in January 2023, this new trilogy of Gold & Silver euros will go back in time from the Imperial period to the Burgundian dynasty of King John II the Good. The nobility of the metal merges with the historical richness of these coins, constituting a precious and modern collection, the Golds of France.
Beyond the enhancement of a historical heritage, this collection highlights the works and engraving techniques of three pivotal periods in French history. The portraits were partially modernised and worked in a contemporary numismatic style without distorting the work of the original master engraver. An actual tribute to my illustrious predecessor
Engraver word
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.
