Catalog
| Issuer | Haiti (1804-date) |
|---|---|
| Year | 1817 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 12 Centimes (0.12) |
| Currency | First gourde (1813-1870) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 1.30 g |
| Diameter | 16.6 mm |
| Thickness | 1 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#14 |
| Obverse description | Coat of Arms |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
REPUBLIQUE D`HAYTI *12*C* (Translation: Republic of Haiti) |
| Reverse description | Bust facing left |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
A.PETION PRESIDENT AN 14 (Translation: President A(lexandre) Petion Year 14) |
| Edge | Smooth |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
14 (1817) - AN14 - |
| Numisquare ID | 7010168480 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 1817 12 Centimes coin belongs to the early years of Haitian independence, issued by the Western Republic under President Alexandre Pétion. After Dessalines' assassination, Haiti was divided, with Pétion governing the southern and western regions. His 1807 republic implemented liberal, agrarian policies, including land redistribution. This coinage asserts his government's sovereignty and distinct monetary system, separate from Henri Christophe's northern Kingdom, solidifying Pétion's authority.
Artistry: The design of the 1817 12 Centimes, featuring a small bust, exemplifies nascent numismatic art in early independent Haiti. The anonymous engraver's style leans towards simplified