Double Franc "à Pied" - William III of Bavaria ND (1365-1389) front Double Franc "à Pied" - William III of Bavaria ND (1365-1389) back
Double Franc "à Pied" - William III of Bavaria ND (1365-1389) photo
© Bibliothèque nationale de France / Gallica

Double Franc "à Pied" - William III of Bavaria ND

 
Gold 7.43 g -
Description
Issuer
County of Hainaut (French States)
Count
William III "the foolish" of Bavaria (1356-1389)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1365-1389
Value
2 Francs on foot (80)
Currency
Gros (1071-1506)
Composition
Gold
Weight
7.43 g
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-04
References
Numista
N#368175
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Floriate triple cross with double-headed eagles in angles.

Script: Latin (uncial)

Lettering: DVX ⵓ WILL'S ⵓ DEI ⵓ GRATIA ⵓ COMES ⵓ hAIN'

Lettering (regular font): DVX ⵓ WILL'S ⵓ DEI ⵓ GRATIA ⵓ COMES ⵓ HAIN'

Unabridged legend: Dux Willelmus Dei Gratia Comes Hanonie

Translation: Duke WIlliam (of Bavaria) by God's grace Count of Hainaut

Comment

Also known as a "double royal d'or." Delmonte rates this type R4, only 2 or 3 known examples.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Double Franc "à Pied" coin is that it was minted during a time of great turmoil in Europe, particularly in the Holy Roman Empire, where William III of Bavaria was the Emperor. The coin's issuance was likely a response to the economic and political instability of the time, as the Empire was facing challenges from the Black Death, the Hundred Years' War, and internal power struggles. Despite these challenges, the coin's gold content and intricate design demonstrate the advanced craftsmanship and economic sophistication of the time.