Patac - Francis I ND (1515-1547) front Patac - Francis I ND (1515-1547) back
Patac - Francis I ND (1515-1547) photo
© lolorose34

Patac - Francis I ND

 
Billon (.079 silver) 1.1 g 18 mm
Description
Issuer
France
King
Francis I (François Ier) (1515-1547)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1515-1547
Value
1 Patac (1⁄180&nbspLT)
Currency
Livre tournois (1204-1795)
Composition
Billon (.079 silver)
Weight
1.1 g
Diameter
18 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-04
References
Numista
N#43156
Rarity index
85%

Reverse

Potentate cross cantoned with four crossletsAutomatically translated

Script: Latin

Lettering: SIT. NOMEN. DNI. BENEDITV.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Patac coin is that it was minted during the reign of Francis I of France, who was known for his efforts to promote the arts and humanism. The coin's design reflects this cultural emphasis, featuring an image of the king on one side and a depiction of the goddess Minerva on the other. This coin was also unique in that it was made of billon, a metal alloy that was commonly used in medieval Europe but had largely fallen out of use by the 16th century. The use of billon in the Patac coin may indicate that it was intended to be a more affordable alternative to coins made of precious metals like gold or silver.