Issued during the reign of Louis XVI, this 1786-W Louis d'Or from the Lille Mint is a dazzling relic of late Bourbon France, produced just three years before the outbreak of the French Revolution. The Louis d'Or served as a crucial gold currency in the waning years of the Ancien Régime, symbolizing royal authority and the enduring prestige of French numismatics.
Obverse: Features a detailed laureate bust of Louis XVI facing left, styled with flowing hair and draped in a classical cuirass. The legend reads “LUD. XVI D. G. FR. ET NAV. REX,” referencing Louis as King of France and Navarre.
Reverse: Displays the crowned twin shields of France and Navarre, each adorned with fleur-de-lis, and encircled by the royal motto “CHRS REGN VINC IMP,” meaning “Christ reigns, conquers, and commands.” The mintmark “W” of Lille appears below.
Graded NGC MS66, this exceptional piece is virtually unsurpassed in quality. Its satin fields and sharply defined strike elevate it into elite territory, offering collectors near-perfect preservation of both artistry and historical legacy.
