½ Ecu of Bearn with insignia - Louis XIV 1701-1703 front ½ Ecu of Bearn with insignia - Louis XIV 1701-1703 back
½ Ecu of Bearn with insignia - Louis XIV 1701-1703 photo
© Monnaies d'Antan

½ Ecu of Bearn with insignia - Louis XIV

 
Silver (.917) 13.54 g 36 mm
Description
Issuer
France
King
Louis XIV (1643-1715)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1701-1703
Value
½ Silver Ecu
Currency
Livre tournois (1204-1795)
Composition
Silver (.917)
Weight
13.54 g
Diameter
36 mm
Shape
Round
Technique
Milled
Orientation
Coin alignment ↑↓
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-04
References
Numista
N#360486
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Crowned 3-part round coat of arms of France, Navarre, and Bearn on crossed scepters.

Script: Latin

Lettering: .SIT.NOMEN.DOMINI. BENEDICTVM.1701

Translation: Blessed be the name of the Lord.

Edge

Embossed inscription.

Script: Latin

Lettering: DOMINE SALVVM FAC REGEM

Translation: Lord, save the king.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the ½ Ecu of Bearn with insignia - Louis XIV 1701-1703 from France is that it was minted during a time when France was transitioning from a feudal society to a centralized state, and the coinage of the time reflected this change. The coin features an image of Louis XIV, who was known as the "Sun King" and ruled France for over 70 years, and its design was meant to promote the idea of a strong, centralized monarchy. Additionally, the coin was made of silver, which was a valuable and widely used metal at the time, and its weight of 13.54 grams made it a substantial coin that was worth a significant amount in its day.