© Heritage Auctions
© Heritage Auctions
10 Louis d'or - Louis XIII Trial
1640 year| Gold (.917) | 67.518 g | 46 mm |
| Issuer | France |
|---|---|
| King | Louis XIII (1610-1643) |
| Type | Pattern |
| Year | 1640 |
| Value | 10 Gold Louis |
| Currency | Livre tournois (1204-1795) |
| Composition | Gold (.917) |
| Weight | 67.518 g |
| Diameter | 46 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#37792 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Cruciform monogram composed of 8 L's, with crowns at ends and lis in each quarter.
Script: Latin
Lettering: CHRISTVS • REGNAT • VINCIT • ET • IMPERAT •
Engraver: Jean Warin
Edge
Smooth and fluted
Comment
Classified as an early restrike, scholarly opinion has been divided regarding the nature and timing of these large and impressive pieces. Sylvia Hurter, without providing any reasoning, once posited that it was not a contemporary issue, but rather an issue from about two centuries later during the reign of Napoleon III. The collector of the piece at the time, Dr. Adams, theorized that her basis was due to the fineness of this example (0.903) being lower than that which would be expected for the type (0.917). Given their status as ceremonial or presentation issues, not meant to circulate and more likely to be used at the royal gambling tables, the specific fineness would not be nearly as important as with coinage actually meant for daily commerce. One can perfectly envision such a piece---or even a stack for the lucky chip leader---in a smoke-filled 19th century royal parlor room, resting impressively at one's seat and section of the gaming table, indicating their winnings along with their ability to push for even more. (Source: Heritage Auctions)Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Pattern 10 Louis d'or - Louis XIII (Trial) 1640 from France is that it was minted during a time of great economic and political change in France. The coin was issued during the reign of Louis XIII, who was attempting to reform the French monetary system and stabilize the economy. The Pattern 10 Louis d'or was one of the first coins to be minted in gold, and it was intended to be used as a standardized unit of currency throughout France. Despite its intended use, the coin is now highly sought after by collectors due to its rarity and historical significance.
