Cadière d'Or - Anne
| Issuer | Brittany, Duchy of |
|---|---|
| Year | 1498-1499 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Cadière d`Or (3) |
| Currency | Pound |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 3.42 g |
| Diameter | 28 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | Jean Bourdichon (1457-1521) |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Dy féodales#357-358, Fr#97 |
| Obverse description | Crowned Duchess Anne, seated on a throne, dress adorned with flecks of ermine and fleur-de-lis. She holds the sword of justice in her right hand and the fleur-de-lis scepter in her left. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
: ANNA : D : G : FRAN : REGINA : ET : BRITONVM : DVCISSA : (Translation: Anne, by the grace of God, queen and duchess of the Britons.) |
| Reverse description | Four crowned ermines confine a fleur-de-lis cross similar to royal coins. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
+ SIT NOMEN DOMINI BENEDICTUM N (Translation: Blessed be the name of the lord.) |
| Edge | |
| Mint |
N Nantes, France (?-1837) |
| Mintage |
1498 N - Renaissance style, 10 coins known - ND (1498-1499) N - Medieval style, 3 coins known - |
| Numisquare ID | 1370747680 |
| Additional information |
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Historical Context: The Cadière d'Or of Anne of Brittany, issued 1498-1499, marks a critical juncture in Breton history. Anne, Duchess in her own right and twice Queen Consort of France, struck this coin between the death of Charles VIII (April 1498) and her marriage to Louis XII (January 1499). This period saw Anne vigorously assert Breton independence. The Cadière d'Or, a traditional ducal type, powerfully symbolized her continued sovereign authority, a defiant statement amidst French political maneuvering.
Artistry: While the engraver remains unknown, this Cadière d'Or embodies late Gothic numismatic style. The obverse features Anne enthroned (the 'cadière'), facing forward, holding a scepter and orb, symbols of her ducal power. This regal portrayal underscores her sovereign status. The reverse typically displays a cross, often cantoned with her arms or fleurs-de-lis, blending religious and political iconography. The design is formal, emphasizing heraldry and monarchical symbolism.
Technical/Grading: Struck in gold, weighing 3.42 grams and measuring 28 millimeters, this Cadière d'Or displays features common to hand-struck coinage of the late 15th century. Critical high-points for assessing wear and strike quality include Anne's crown, facial features, the throne's details, and the central elements of the reverse cross. A well-struck example exhibits clear definition in these areas, though minor off-centering or irregular flan shapes are typical. The consistent specifications reflect careful production for this gold issue.