Teston - Francis I 1515-1540 front Teston - Francis I 1515-1540 back
Teston - Francis I 1515-1540 photo

Teston - Francis I

 
Silver 9 g -
Description
Issuer
France
King
Francis I (François Ier) (1515-1547)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1515-1540
Value
1 Teston (½&nbspLT)
Currency
Livre tournois (1204-1795)
Composition
Silver
Weight
9 g
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-04
References
Numista
N#3328
Rarity index
94%

Reverse

France crowned ecu, surrounded by hexabole

Script: Latin

Edge

Slick

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Teston - Francis I 1515-1540 coin from France is that it was one of the first coins to feature a portrait of a French king. The coin was minted during the reign of Francis I, who was the first king of France to adopt the Renaissance style of coinage, which featured a realistic portrait of the king on the obverse (front) side of the coin. This was a departure from the traditional medieval style of coinage, which often featured abstract designs or symbols. The portrait of Francis I on the Teston coin was designed by the French engraver and medalist, Jean de Bueil, and it is considered one of the most iconic images of the king.