© nonosse
© nonosse
½ Bugne - Robert of Lenoncourt Shield ND
| Billon | 0.47 g | 15 mm |
| Issuer | Bishopric of Metz (French States) |
|---|---|
| Bishop | Robert of Lenoncourt (1551-1555) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1551-1555 |
| Value | ½ Bugne (1⁄144) |
| Currency | Thaler (1500-) |
| Composition | Billon |
| Weight | 0.47 g |
| Diameter | 15 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#59754 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 94% |
Reverse
Big cross pattée with a shield in the middle.
Lettering: MON - EPI - MET-ENS
Translation: Coin from the Bishopric of Metz.
Comment
Robert of Lenoncourt was the 83rd bishop of Metz. His administrative powers as a Prince-bishop were limited to the surrounding territories, as the city was under a local civil administration from 1234 to 1552 known as the Republic of Metz (République messine). In 1552 Metz became part of the Three-Bishoprics, a French protectorate inside the Holy Roman Empire, and the Republic of Metz dismantling started up to the full integration inside the Kingdom of France in 1648.The mint of the Prince-bishop was moved from Marsal to Vic-sur-Seille in the beginning of his reign, but Henri II of France sequestered the mint in 1553.
Example with medal alignment ↑↑
has mass 0.80 g and 16 mm.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it was minted during a time of great religious and political upheaval in France. The Bishopric of Metz, where the coin was minted, was a key center of Catholicism and political power, and the coin's design reflects this, featuring the shield of Robert of Lenoncourt, the Bishop of Metz at the time. Despite the turmoil of the era, the coin's small size and relatively low denomination suggest that it was intended for everyday use by common people, highlighting the importance of coinage in facilitating economic activity during this period.
