Catalog
| Issuer | New France |
|---|---|
| Year | 1670 |
| Type | Coin pattern |
| Value | 2 Deniers (1⁄120) |
| Currency | |
| Composition | Copper |
| Weight | 3.826 g |
| Diameter | 22 mm |
| Thickness | 2 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | Jean Warin |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) |
| Obverse description | Large L crowned, dividing date; mint letter below. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
LVDOVICVS · XIIII · D · GR · FRAN · ET · NAV · REX 16 L 70 A (Translation: Louis XIV, king of France and Navarra by the grace of God) |
| Reverse description | Legend on four lines; below, mint letter between three fleur-de-lis. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
DOVBLE DE LA MERIQUE FRANÇOISE ⚜ A ⚜ ⚜ (Translation: Double of the French America) |
| Edge | |
| Mint |
A Monnaie de Paris, Paris (and Pessac starting 1973), France (864-date) |
| Mintage |
1670 A - Unique - |
| Numisquare ID | 1491583280 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 1670 2 Deniers pattern coin represents a pivotal, albeit ultimately unrealized, moment in the monetary history of New France under Louis XIV. The Sun King, reigning during the height of French absolutism and colonial expansion, sought to consolidate royal authority and standardize currency in his North American territories. Driven by Jean-Baptiste Colbert's mercantilist policies, these patterns were an attempt to establish a dedicated colonial coinage, replacing the disparate mix of French, foreign, and barter currencies then in circulation. The failure to implement these patterns meant New France continued to struggle with a lack of uniform coinage for decades.
Artistry: The design of this pattern coin reflects the sophisticated French Baroque numismatic style prevalent during Louis XIV's reign. While a specific engraver is not recorded in the provided data, the work aligns with the high standards of the Paris Mint, likely under the influence of master engravers like Jean Warin. The obverse features a finely rendered, laureate bust of the young Louis XIV, embodying royal majesty. The reverse displays the elegant, crowned double L monogram, flanked by three fleurs-de-lis, powerfully symbolizing the French monarchy's dominion over "NOVVELLA FRANCIA" (New France), clearly indicating its intended colonial purpose.
Technical/Grading: Struck in copper with a weight of 3.826 grams and a diameter of 22 millimeters, this pattern coin typically exhibits a superior strike quality compared to regular issue coinage, as patterns were often produced with meticulous care for royal approval. High-points to observe for wear or strike weakness include the hair above the king's ear, the laurel wreath, and the tip of the nose on the obverse. On the reverse, the details of the crown and the central elements of the intertwined Ls and fleurs-de-lis are critical. A well-preserved example will show sharp legends, clear design elements, and smooth fields, indicative of its pattern status.