½ Groschen - Francis I ND
| Silver | 1.29 g | 19 mm |
| Issuer | Duchy of Lorraine (French States) |
|---|---|
| Duke | Francis I (1544-1545) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1544-1545 |
| Value | ½ Groschen (1⁄40) |
| Currency | Pound |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 1.29 g |
| Diameter | 19 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#140097 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 91% |
Reverse
Downward pointing sword cutting through legend at bottom.
Script: Latin
Lettering: MOnETA FACTA NAnCE
Translation: Coin made in Nancy.
Comment
There are many minor variations in both the obverse and reverse legends of this coin, and the weight is variable.Francis reigned for only 363 days, and coins were minted for only 9 months during his reign.
a bit more detail on shield:
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the ½ Groschen coin from the Duchy of Lorraine is that it was minted during the reign of Francis I, who was the first Duke of Lorraine to issue coins in his own name, rather than using the traditional currency of the Holy Roman Empire. This coin, made of silver and weighing 1.29 grams, was a significant departure from the usual copper coins that were commonly used at the time, and it marked a shift towards the use of precious metals in coinage.
