50 Centimes - Rainier III (Essai) 1962 front 50 Centimes - Rainier III (Essai) 1962 back
50 Centimes - Rainier III (Essai) 1962 photo
© HerveMonaco (CC BY-NC-SA)

50 Centimes - Rainier III Essai

1962 year
Copper-aluminium 7 g 25 mm
Description
Issuer
Monaco
Prince
Rainier III (1949-2005)
Type
Pattern
Year
1962
Value
50 Centimes (0.50&nbspMCF)
Currency
Nouveau franc (1960-2001)
Composition
Copper-aluminium
Weight
7 g
Diameter
25 mm
Shape
Round
Technique
Milled
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#326939
Rarity index
92%

Reverse

Crown above shield, monk soldier of Grimaldi with a sword

Script: Latin

Lettering:
DEO JUVANTE
50
CENTIMES
ESSAI

Translation:
50
Centimes
Trial
With God's Help

Engraver: Georges Simon

Edge

Plain

Interesting fact

This coin was part of a test run (essai) for the official 50 centimes coin issued during the reign of Prince Rainier III in Monaco. It features a unique composition of copper-aluminum, which was likely chosen for its durability and resistance to corrosion in the coastal environment of Monaco. The coin weighs 7 grams, making it slightly heavier than the standard 50 centimes coins produced later in the series. This particular example showcases the innovative approach taken by the Monegasque mint in experimenting with new materials and designs during the early stages of Prince Rainier III's reign.