© Heritage Auctions
© Heritage Auctions
Teston - Leopold I Jerusalem shield
| Silver (.734) | 8.32 g | 29 mm |
| Issuer | Duchy of Lorraine (French States) |
|---|---|
| Duke | Leopold (1697-1729) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1716-1717 |
| Value | 1 Teston (½) |
| Currency | Pound of Lorraine (1700-1737) |
| Composition | Silver (.734) |
| Weight | 8.32 g |
| Diameter | 29 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#33783 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 93% |
Reverse
Crowned shield of Jerusalem.
Script: Latin
Lettering: IN·TE·DOMINE SPERAVI·1716·
Translation: I put my hope on you my Lord.
Edge
Plaited.
Comment
Even Lorraine was simply a Duchy, the Duke Leopold Ier wore the title of King on his coins, plaiming himself heir of Godefroy of Bouillon, former King of Jerusalem. This also explains the use of a shield of Jerusalem on the reverse.The value of the gold and silver coins issued during Leopold's reign was changing constantly. According to deSaulcy (p.201), the ordinance of Jan. 3, 1716 which authorized the striking of this new type of teston set its value at 26 sous (1.3 livres)
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Teston - Leopold I (Jerusalem shield) coin is that it features a unique design on its reverse side. Instead of the usual coat of arms or other symbol of the Duchy of Lorraine, this coin features an image of the Jerusalem shield, which is a rare and distinctive feature for a coin from this region and time period.
