$5,220.00 USD
The year is 1719, and France is at the height of its cultural and political influence under the regency of Philippe II, Duke of Orléans, governing for the young Louis XV. The Gold Half Louis d’Or, a gleaming artifact from this fascinating period, is a coin that captures the elegance, power, and ambitions of a nation striving to recover from war and embrace new financial reforms. Graded NGC AU58, this coin is a rare testament to the artistry and historical significance of the early 18th century.
On the obverse, the portrait of Louis XV takes center stage, even as a boy, his profile exuding the divine authority of a king born to rule. Encircling the youthful visage is the inscription “LUDOVICUS XV D G FR ET NAV REX”—Louis XV, by the Grace of God, King of France and Navarre. The engraving is a masterpiece of precision, capturing the fine details of his features with a naturalistic touch. Light wear on the high points adds a sense of depth and authenticity, perfectly balanced with the golden luster that still graces the fields.
Turning to the reverse, you’ll find a design steeped in royal symbolism. The center is dominated by a crowned shield bearing the fleur-de-lis, the enduring emblem of French monarchy. This shield, flanked by elegant flourishes, is a declaration of France’s strength and the king’s divine right to rule. Surrounding this powerful imagery is the Latin inscription “CHRS REGN VINC IMPER” (Christ reigns, conquers, and commands), a reminder of the monarchy’s belief in its ordained authority. The intricate details remain sharp, while the soft glow of gold reflects centuries of careful preservation.
The Half Louis d’Or was minted during a transformative time for France. The economy was undergoing significant changes under the influence of John Law, whose financial experiments sought to modernize France’s monetary system. Gold coins like this one served as both a practical tool for trade and a symbol of the monarchy’s enduring power, bridging the old world of hereditary rule with the emerging modern state.
Graded NGC AU58, this coin’s surfaces radiate a captivating brilliance, with minimal wear confined to the highest points of the design. Its near-mint state ensures the preservation of its intricate details, making it not only a historical treasure but also a numismatic work of art. The balance of luster and subtle signs of circulation speaks to its dual role as both currency and a carrier of prestige.
To hold this 1719 France Gold Half Louis d’Or is to touch a piece of history, a golden echo of a France navigating its future while rooted in its regal past. It is more than just a coin; it is a tangible connection to the legacy of Louis XV and the elegance of a nation that once defined sophistication and power in Europe.
