½ Gold Henri - Henry II (1st type; damascened breastplate) 1552-1558 front ½ Gold Henri - Henry II (1st type; damascened breastplate) 1552-1558 back
½ Gold Henri - Henry II (1st type; damascened breastplate) 1552-1558 photo
© Chaponnière et Firmenich SA

½ Gold Henri - Henry II 1st type; damascened breastplate

 
Gold (.958) 1.75 g 20 mm
Description
Issuer
France
King
Henry II (Henri II) (1547-1559)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1552-1558
Value
½ Gold Henri
Currency
Livre tournois (1204-1795)
Composition
Gold (.958)
Weight
1.75 g
Diameter
20 mm
Shape
Round
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-04
References
Numista
N#413875
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Cross of four H's with two crescents and two lis in the angles.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
DVM TOTVM COMPLEAT ORBEM 1552
B

Translation: Until it fills the entire circle.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the ½ Gold Henri - Henry II (1st type; damascened breastplate) coin from France is that it was minted during a time of significant economic and political change in the country. The coin was introduced in 1552, just a few years after the French Crown had defaulted on its debts and devalued its currency, leading to widespread economic instability. Despite these challenges, the coin remained a popular form of currency among merchants and traders, and its gold content made it a valuable and sought-after commodity.