Catalog
| Issuer | Brittany (fantasy) |
|---|---|
| Year | |
| Type | Replica coin |
| Value | |
| Currency | |
| Composition | Gold (.999) plated silver (.999) |
| Weight | 20 g |
| Diameter | 40 mm |
| Thickness | 2 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) |
| Obverse description | Gold shield with the sun of Brittany, 1498, minted under Louis XII. Representation of the assembly of the Estates General in Tours in May 1506. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | LE DUCHÉ DE BRETAGNE 1498 ECU D`OR AU SOLEIL DE BRETAGNE |
| Reverse description | French coat of arms with rooster and laurel wreath |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | * 2000 ANS D’HISTOIRE * MONÉTAIRE FRANÇAISE |
| Edge | Plain |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1421067720 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The Ecu d`or au soleil de Bretagne, dated 1498, marks the pivotal year of Louis XII's ascension to the French throne. This era saw Brittany's complex integration into the French kingdom, solidified by Louis XII's marriage to Anne of Brittany. While standard Ecus d'or were issued from royal French mints, this Breton variant, bearing the "sun" motif, would signify a unique ducal prerogative or a special commemorative issue, underscoring Brittany's distinct identity within the French monarchy.
Artistry: Attributed to Maître Yves de Nantes, this coin exemplifies the transitional artistic style of the late 15th century, blending robust Gothic heraldry with nascent Renaissance precision. The obverse prominently features the royal arms of France, surmounted by a crown, with the eponymous radiant sun (soleil) above, symbolizing divine right and royal splendor. The reverse typically displays a cross fleury. The design's strength lies in its bold, clear lines and symbolic weight, reflecting political and religious sentiments.
Technical/Grading: This Ecu's composition of gold (.999) plated silver (.999) is highly unusual for its purported era, suggesting a ceremonial, presentation, or experimental strike. Weighing 20 grams and measuring 40mm, the large diameter implies a relatively thin flan. Key high-points for grading include the intricate details of the crown, the individual rays of the sun, and the delicate fleurs-de-lis on the shield. A strong strike would reveal sharp definition on these elements, with minimal weakness in central motifs, and a lustrous, even plating exhibiting proof-like qualities.