1/4 Ecu - Henry II

Historical Context: This 1/4 Ecu was struck under Henry II of Navarre, later Henry IV of France. Issued 1584-1588, it falls within the War of the Three Henrys, a pivotal phase of the French Wars of Religion. As a Protestant leader, Henry asserted his sovereignty and financial autonomy from Béarn, his ancestral stronghold. Issuing Ecu-standard coinage, distinct from royal French issues, reinforced Henry’s independent claim amidst profound political and religious turmoil.

Artistry: Specific engravers for Béarnese coinage of this era are rarely identified. The artistic style reflects late 16th-century French numismatic trends, often exhibiting a provincial character compared to Parisian issues. The obverse typically features a laureate or armored bust of Henry II. The reverse displays a crowned shield, usually bearing the arms of Navarre and Béarn, surrounded by the legend. Execution quality varied; some dies show fine detail in portraiture and heraldry, others simpler, characteristic of regional mints during conflict.

Technical/Grading: For this type, critical grading points include clarity of Henry II's bust on the obverse, particularly hair, facial features, and armor. Legends on both sides are often thin and prone to wear; legibility is paramount. On the reverse, examine the crown's intricacies, the distinctness of the heraldic elements within the shield (e.g., Navarre chains, Béarn bears), and any visible mint marks. Overall strike quality, centering, and planchet condition are also significant, as irregular strikes and minor flaws are common for this turbulent period's issues.