1/2 Gold Royal - Francis I

Francis I came to the throne in January 1515 and launched his Italian campaign within months, crossing the Alps and winning the decisive Battle of Marignano in September of that year. The demi-royal was struck against that backdrop of immediate military ambition. It continued the royal type established under Louis XII with minimal modification — Francis was not yet in a position to overhaul the coinage in his first regnal year.

The type is scarce in any condition. LP#799 cross-references Lafaurie's classification, placing this among the transitional issues before the monetary ordinances of 1516 reorganized French gold production.