1786-D FRENCH L.D'OR
080-00464
This 1786-D French Louis d’Or, struck at the Lyon Mint, represents a pinnacle of late-monarchical French numismatics. Issued during the twilight of the Ancien Régime under King Louis XVI, this "Double Louis" or "Louis d'Or" (depending on the specific weight, though usually referred to as the standard Louis d'Or of the 1785 reform) is a masterpiece of 18th-century engraving and royal branding.
The obverse features the elegant, draped bust of Louis XVI facing left, captured in a moment of stoic regality. The legend LUD. XVI. D. G. FR. ET NAV. REX (Louis XVI, by the Grace of God, King of France and Navarre) circles the portrait, showcasing the high-relief detail typical of the period. On the reverse, the coin displays the iconic crowned dual shields of France and Navarre. The "D" mint mark, positioned at the bottom, identifies this piece as a product of Lyon, a city with a storied history of refining and striking precious metals. The reverse legend, CHRS. REGN. VINC. IMPER (Christ reigns, conquers, commands), serves as the traditional religious and political affirmation of the French monarchy.
Graded MS63 (Mint State 63), this specimen is a "Choice Uncirculated" example that has survived over two centuries with its original integrity intact.
The coin possesses a vibrant, satiny luster that dances across the gold surfaces when rotated.
While minor contact marks or "bag marks" are expected at this grade, the fields remain remarkably clean, and the focal points of the King’s portrait and the royal crowns are sharply defined.
The warm, honey-gold hue of the 22-karat gold is exceptionally pleasing, offering a glimpse into the wealth of the French treasury just years before the Revolution.
Acquiring a Louis d'Or in MS63 is a significant achievement for any collector of European gold. Most of these coins saw heavy circulation or were melted down during the political upheavals of the 1790s. To find one with such high-relief detail and preserved luster is rare, making it a cornerstone piece for a serious numismatic portfolio.
The obverse features the elegant, draped bust of Louis XVI facing left, captured in a moment of stoic regality. The legend LUD. XVI. D. G. FR. ET NAV. REX (Louis XVI, by the Grace of God, King of France and Navarre) circles the portrait, showcasing the high-relief detail typical of the period. On the reverse, the coin displays the iconic crowned dual shields of France and Navarre. The "D" mint mark, positioned at the bottom, identifies this piece as a product of Lyon, a city with a storied history of refining and striking precious metals. The reverse legend, CHRS. REGN. VINC. IMPER (Christ reigns, conquers, commands), serves as the traditional religious and political affirmation of the French monarchy.
Graded MS63 (Mint State 63), this specimen is a "Choice Uncirculated" example that has survived over two centuries with its original integrity intact.
The coin possesses a vibrant, satiny luster that dances across the gold surfaces when rotated.
While minor contact marks or "bag marks" are expected at this grade, the fields remain remarkably clean, and the focal points of the King’s portrait and the royal crowns are sharply defined.
The warm, honey-gold hue of the 22-karat gold is exceptionally pleasing, offering a glimpse into the wealth of the French treasury just years before the Revolution.
Acquiring a Louis d'Or in MS63 is a significant achievement for any collector of European gold. Most of these coins saw heavy circulation or were melted down during the political upheavals of the 1790s. To find one with such high-relief detail and preserved luster is rare, making it a cornerstone piece for a serious numismatic portfolio.
| Additional Information | |
|---|---|
| COUNTRY | FRANCE |
| DENOMINATION | L.D'OR |
| EdgeItemKey | 001-080-00464 |
| GRADE | MS63 |
| Inventory Type | Stock |
| MINT MARK | D |
| stone info | [] |
| Vendor Style Code | 1786D L.D'OR |
| YEAR | 1786 |
