Douzain of Dauphine - Francis I 10th type

Historical Context: This Douzain, a crucial billon denomination, dates from the early reign of Francis I (1515-1540), a pivotal era for the French Renaissance. As King and Dauphin, Francis I oversaw significant cultural flourishing and geopolitical struggles, including the Italian Wars. Struck in Dauphine, the region historically reserved for the heir apparent, this coin served as essential circulating currency, reflecting the Valois monarchy's monetary system from his accession. Its issuance from 1515 underscores its immediate fiscal relevance to his early policies.

Artistry: The 10th type Douzain of Dauphine displays designs typical of early 16th-century French billon coinage. Engravers for these workhorse issues remain largely anonymous; the stylistic school blends late Gothic heraldry with nascent Renaissance elements. The obverse typically features the crowned royal monogram or arms of France, often accompanied by the Dauphine's distinctive dolphin emblem. The reverse commonly depicts a cross, frequently flory or pattee, within a geometric design, emphasizing regal authority and religious piety with practical simplicity befitting its low intrinsic value.

Technical/Grading: Struck on a 26mm flan weighing 2.33 grams with .339 silver billon (Dy royales#852), this Douzain often challenges high-grade preservation. High-points for wear include the crown's uppermost fleurs-de-lis, the shield's central elements, and the cross's terminals. Due to its low silver content and extensive circulation, these coins frequently exhibit irregular flans, weak strikes, and significant wear. Planchet defects, such as laminations or cracks, are common in mass production, reflecting the less refined minting techniques for such common denominations of the period.