Catalog
| Issuer | Laos |
|---|---|
| Year | 1952 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 20 Cents (0.20) |
| Currency | Piastre (1952) |
| Composition | Aluminium |
| Weight | 2.23 g |
| Diameter | 27 mm |
| Thickness | 2.2 mm |
| Shape | Round with a round hole |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Engraver(s) | Lucien Georges Bazor |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#5, Schön#2 |
| Obverse description | Lesser Version of Coat of Arms or the Royal Seal. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Lao, Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
ROYAUME DU LAOS ພະຣາຊະອານາຈັກລາວ 1952 (Translation: KINGDOM OF LAOS Kingdom of Laos 1952) |
| Reverse description | The face value and the date in Laotian and French. A rosette composed of stylized frangipani leaves. |
| Reverse script | Lao, Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
໑໙໕໒ ໒໐ ອັດ 20 CENTS 1952 (Translation: 1952 20 Cents 20 CENTS 1952) |
| Edge | Smooth |
| Mint |
Monnaie de Paris, Paris (and Pessac starting 1973), France (864-date) |
| Mintage |
1952 - Monnaie de Paris (wing) - 3 000 000 1952 - Piéfort - 104 |
| Numisquare ID | 5229187290 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 1952 20 Cents coin featuring Sisavang Vong marks a crucial period for Laos. Sisavang Vong, initially King of Luang Prabang, became the first King of the unified Kingdom of Laos in 1946. By 1952, Laos was an associated state within the French Union, navigating its path towards full independence. This coinage, likely minted under French oversight, asserted a distinct Laotian national identity and royal authority during a complex geopolitical transition, preceding full sovereignty in 1953.
Artistry: The design reflects the prevalent French academic and colonial stylistic school of the mid-20th century, likely executed by engravers at the Monnaie de Paris. The obverse portrait of Sisavang Vong would exhibit a dignified, realistic rendition of the monarch, balanced with regal formality. The reverse design would feature the denomination, often accompanied by traditional Laotian motifs or royal symbols, presented with precise, legible lettering characteristic of French minting standards.
Technical/Grading: Struck in aluminum, measuring 27mm and weighing 2.23 grams, this coin's technical qualities are typical for its metal and era. For grading, high-points on the obverse include the hair details, ear, and cheekbone of Sisavang Vong's portrait. On the reverse, observe the highest elements of any central motif or lettering. Due to aluminum's softness, these coins often exhibit light strikes on high points and are susceptible to bag marks, significantly impacting uncirculated appearance.