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.