1⁄2 Groat "with Lion" - John II of Avesnes ND (1298-1299) front 1⁄2 Groat "with Lion" - John II of Avesnes ND (1298-1299) back
1⁄2 Groat "with Lion" - John II of Avesnes ND (1298-1299) photo
© Jean Elsen & ses Fils s.a.

1⁄2 Groat "with Lion" - John II of Avesnes ND

 
Silver 1.9 g 22 mm
Description
Issuer
County of Hainaut (French States)
Count
John II (Jan II) (1280-1304)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1298-1299
Value
½ Groat
Currency
Gros (1071-1506)
Composition
Silver
Weight
1.9 g
Diameter
22 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-04
References
Numista
N#315661
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Short cross pattee with triangular florettes in each corner

Script: Latin

Lettering: ✠ :MOnЄTA: VALЄNChЄNЄnSIS

Translation: Coinage of Valenciennes

Comment

Known as a demi gros au lion or petit gros

A variant (Chalon 30) without the hexilobe obverse, with three pellets replacing the florettes, and slightly different spelling in legends exists:

Copyright @Jean Elsen et ses Fils

Interesting fact

The coat of arms on the 1/2 Groat "with Lion" coin features a lion rampant, which is a common symbol of power and strength in heraldry.