1 Gros - Louise-Marguerite

Historical Context: The 1 Gros of Louise-Marguerite hails from the Principality of Château-Regnault, a small, independent fief within the French States (1614-1629). Louise-Marguerite of Lorraine-Guise, Princess of Conti, was a formidable and intellectually prominent figure. Her right to mint coinage underscored the semi-autonomous status of her principality amidst the centralizing efforts of the French crown, particularly during the regency of Marie de' Medici and early reign of Louis XIII. This issue is a tangible assertion of her sovereign authority.

Artistry: The artistic execution reflects regional minting practices prevalent in early 17th-century France. While specific engravers are rarely documented for such minor principalities, the style typically falls within a late Renaissance framework, transitioning towards early Baroque influences. Designs commonly featured a crowned monogram or an effigy of Louise-Marguerite on the obverse, accompanied by her titles, and a crowned shield bearing the arms of Château-Regnault on the reverse. The aesthetic, though less refined than royal issues, aimed to convey regal authority.

Technical/Grading: Struck in billon, an alloy with low silver content, this 1 Gros (0.97 gg) frequently exhibits characteristics typical of such issues. Striking quality can be inconsistent, with weak strikes often present on high points like the crown, effigy details, or armorial bearings. Irregular flans and off-center strikes are also common, reflecting less sophisticated minting technology. Surface corrosion is often observed due to the base metal content, impacting overall preservation and detail.