© Heritage Auctions
© Heritage Auctions
5 Francs - Alexandre Berthier Pattern ND
| Silver | 25.61 g | 37 mm |
| Issuer | Principality of Neuchâtel |
|---|---|
| Prince | Louis-Alexander Berthier (1806-1814) |
| Type | Pattern |
| Years | 1813-1897 |
| Value | 5 Francs |
| Currency | Franc (1814) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 25.61 g |
| Diameter | 37 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-07 |
| Numista | N#24683 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 93% |
Reverse
Crown above value in wreath, date below.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
PRINCIPAUTE DE NEUCHATEL
5
FRANCS
181 .
Engraver: Jean-Pierre Droz
Edge
Lettering: POIDS VINGT - CINQ GRAM - MES TI - TRE NEUF D - IXIEMES
Comment
Richter Pr. lists the weight between 24.45-25.00g;Variants:
• HMZ# 2-720b: edge lettering in five segments; obverse legend: "PRIN. DE..."
• HMZ# 2-720c: edge lettering in five segments; obverse legend: "PRINCE DE..."; Rarity R4 (2-4 pieces known) according to Richter Pr.
• HMZ# 2-720f: edge lettering in three segments; Copies of HMZ# 2-720c. According to Richter Pr, The copies were done by the Belgian Auguste Brichaut (1836-1897) in collaboration with Atelier Würden in Brussels. Although these coins are often listed as restrikes, the comparison to the originals clearly shows that Brichaut used entirely new dies.
Demole-Wavre 294; D.T. 252
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Pattern 5 Francs - Alexandre Berthier (Pattern) ND (1813-1897) from Principality of Neuchâtel is that it was designed by the French engraver and medalist, Jean-Baptiste Mercier. Mercier was known for his work on various coins and medals, including the famous "Napoleon's Coinage" series. The coin's design features a portrait of Alexandre Berthier, the Prince of Neuchâtel, on one side, and an image of a standing Helvetia (the national personification of Switzerland) on the other. The coin's unique design and historical significance make it a valuable collector's item for numismatists.