1 Kreuzer - Henri I (celery leaves; with "H") 1590-1591 front 1 Kreuzer - Henri I (celery leaves; with "H") 1590-1591 back
1 Kreuzer - Henri I (celery leaves; with "H") 1590-1591 photo
© Sincona AG

1 Kreuzer - Henri I celery leaves; with "H"

 
Billon 1.41 g -
Description
Issuer
Duchy of Neuchâtel
Duke
Henry I of Orléans, Duke of Longueville (1588-1595)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1590-1591
Value
1 Kreuzer (1⁄84)
Currency
Écu (1587-1707)
Composition
Billon
Weight
1.41 g
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-08
References
Numista
N#329186
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Forked cross with four “H”, surmounted by ducal crowns. Finial in celery leaves .

Script: Latin

Lettering: OCVLI · DOM · SVPER · IVSTOS ✿

Unabridged legend: Oculi Domini Super Iustos

Translation: The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous.

Engraver: Claude Bourberain

Comment

This type, engraved by Bourberain, was the last one struck before the decision taken on 19 March 1591 to remove the "H" from the reverse of the kreutzers (Froidevaux, 2019).

Interesting fact

The 1 Kreuzer coin from the Duchy of Neuchâtel, featuring Henri I with celery leaves and the letter "H," was minted during a time of great economic and political change in Europe. The use of billon, a silver-copper alloy, was a common practice during this period, as it allowed for the production of coins with a lower intrinsic value than pure silver or gold. Despite its relatively low value, this coin remains a fascinating piece of history, offering a glimpse into the financial and political systems of 16th-century Europe.