© Bibliothèque nationale de France / Gallica
© Bibliothèque nationale de France / Gallica
Gold Ecu - Anthony of Bourbon and Joan of Albret
1555 year| Gold | 3.34 g | - |
| Issuer | Lordship of Béarn (French States) |
|---|---|
| Lord | Anthony of Bourbon (1555-1562) |
| Lady | Joan of Albret (1555-1572) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Year | 1555 |
| Value | 1 Gold Ecu |
| Currency | Livre |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 3.34 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#426312 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Cross with two crowned A's and two crowned I's in opposite angles.
Script: Latin
Lettering: GRATIA D SVMVS QD SVMVS 1555
Translation: Thanks god, we are what we are.
Comment
This coin was minted at the monetary workshop in Pau, below the castle, in a tower known as the Moulin. The workshop had been equipped with a hydraulic system under the reign of Henri d'Albret, Jeanne's father, enabling production to be carried out with great regularity thanks to the pendulum coinage.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Gold Ecu coin from the Lordship of Béarn is that it features the effigies of Anthony of Bourbon and Joan of Albret, who were the ruling couple of the region at the time. This coin was minted in 1555, during their reign, and it is made of gold, which was a valuable and prestigious metal at the time. The coin's design highlights the power and wealth of the ruling family, and it is a testament to the rich history and culture of the French States.
