$4,432.50 USD
Struck under the reign of Charles V of France, known as “Charles the Wise,” this 1364–1380 Gold Franc à Pied, graded NGC MS62, is a masterpiece of medieval French gold coinage. Introduced following the debasement of earlier currency during the Hundred Years' War, the franc à pied helped restore financial stability and royal credibility during a pivotal recovery period.
Obverse: Displays a full-length image of the king standing in armor, holding a sword and an orb, flanked by ornate Gothic arches and fleurs-de-lis. The figure is richly detailed, conveying majesty, divine sanction, and martial authority, with a clear surrounding legend affirming his sovereignty.
Reverse: Features a floriated cross with fleurs-de-lis and quadrants filled by additional fleur motifs, all contained within a quatrefoil. This design echoes the sacred and heraldic themes central to medieval royal ideology.
Graded MS62, this example is a premium condition rarity for 14th-century hammered gold. Its strike is unusually well-aligned and complete, with exceptional detail in the king’s regalia and a luminous gold surface. The coin’s artistry, historical significance, and elite grade combine to make it a cornerstone piece for collectors of medieval France or pre-Renaissance European gold.
