$5,474.00 USD
Struck during the early reign of Louis XIV—while still a child under regency—this 1653-A France Gold 1 Louis d’Or (LOR), graded NGC AU58, represents a formative issue of the Sun King’s monumental rule. Minted in Paris ("A" mintmark), it belongs to the transitional phase between medieval and modern French gold coinage, capturing the youthful visage of the future absolutist monarch.
Obverse: Features a right-facing laureate bust of the young Louis XIV with long flowing hair, surrounded by the Latin legend LVD XIV D G FR ET NAV REX ("Louis XIV, by the Grace of God, King of France and Navarre"). The Renaissance-style portrait and clean fields convey the classical dignity the regime sought to project even in its regency.
Reverse: Displays a cross formed by four interlocking double “L” monograms with fleurs-de-lis in the angles, and a crowned central oval enclosing the Paris mintmark. The arrangement asserts dynastic continuity and divine favor, supported by the surrounding legend affirming royal sovereignty.
Graded AU58, this coin retains sharp definition in the portrait and reverse devices, with only faint high-point friction. The surfaces still exhibit original luster, and the piece strikes a fine balance between historicity and eye appeal. As one of the earliest issues of Louis XIV’s reign, it holds exceptional numismatic value for collectors of Bourbon France or 17th-century European gold.
France Gold 1 LOR, King Louis XIV as a young boy.
