Double Tournois - Maximilien III 4th type
| Issuer | Boisbelle-Henrichemont, Principality of |
|---|---|
| Year | 1641-1642 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 2 Deniers (1⁄120) |
| Currency | Livre |
| Composition | Copper |
| Weight | 2.5 g |
| Diameter | 20 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | CGKL#708, Dy féodales#661, PA#XLVI/4 |
| Obverse description | Bust to the right. Beginning of legend at 6 o`clock, smooth circle. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
M.F.DE.BETHVNE.P.S.D`ENRICHE (Translation: Maximilien François of Bethune, Sovereign Prince of Henrichemont) |
| Reverse description | Shield of Henrichemont in a field of lilies. Beginning of legend at 12 o`clock, smooth circle. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | + DOVBLE.TOVRNOIS.1642.H |
| Edge | Smooth. |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1641 - (fr) a1 - 1642 - (fr) a1 - 1642 - (fr) a2 - 1642 - (fr) b? - |
| Numisquare ID | 1054184040 |
| Additional information |
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Historical Context: The Double Tournois of Maximilien III de Béthune (1641-1642) originates from Boisbelle-Henrichemont, a unique principality established by Henri IV. Maximilien III, grandson of the Duc de Sully, issued these during Anne of Austria's regency for Louis XIV. Minting rights asserted Boisbelle's sovereignty, providing crucial low-denomination copper currency for local trade. This "4th type" signifies a sustained minting program, underscoring the principality's economic needs and independent status.
Artistry: Specific engraver attribution for this copper issue is typically unrecorded. The artistry adheres to functional 17th-century French provincial numismatic conventions. The obverse likely features Maximilien III's effigy or monogram, with his titulature. The reverse typically displays a central cross or heraldic device, accompanied by the denomination and date. Execution prioritized clarity for circulation, characteristic of contemporary copper issues from smaller mints.
Technical/Grading: Key high-points for grading include the clarity of Maximilien III's obverse effigy or monogram, particularly coronet, hair, or drapery details, and full legend legibility. On the reverse, the central cross's details and the complete date (1641 or 1642) and "DOUBLE TOURNOIS" inscription are crucial. Due to copper medium and inconsistent striking, common wear points are highest relief areas (effigy, cross center) and outer legends, often weak or flat even on well-preserved specimens. Planchet quality is variable.