The 30-denier coin (1709-1713) of the French regime was dubbed the “mousquetaire” because of its cross, and that cross design has been made new again on this 99.99% pure gold showstopper. We went to great lengths to make sure all the original details were faithfully reproduced on the reverse, even the mint mark. But you can judge for yourself: each 24-karat gold coin comes with a genuine Louis XIV 30-denier piece that evokes images of life in New France.
The Design:
The coin’s reverse is based on the 30-denier coin that was minted from 1709 to 1713. Though not originally intended for it, the 30-denier coin would appear in circulation in New France. The original design by engraver Norbert Röettiers (1665-1727) features an outlined cross with three circles at the end of each arm and a fleur-de-lis at each angle. For historical authenticity, the reverse includes the original inscribed denomination, “PIECE DE XXX DENIERS”, and the “AA” Metz mint mark. The obverse features the effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Susanna Blunt.
30 Deniers, 1709-1713:
In the early 18th century, rising inflation meant the silver value of French coins was higher than its actual face value — this was the case with the sol (sou) coin, which had an assigned value of 12 deniers. However, by decree in 1640, all sol coins were ordered to be returned to the Crown on pain of severe penalty. They were then re-evaluated and counter-stamped with a fleur-de-lys to raise their value from 12 to 15 deniers. Coin shortages, especially in the colonies, still needed to be remedied and France had a limited supply of silver; in September 1709, a royal decree issued by King Louis XIV authorized the minting of two new denominations: a 30-denier coin and a similarly designed 15-denier piece. These would be made of billon, a very low-grade silver, but with a 20% silver content to prop up their value.
Between 1709 and 1713, more than 122 million of these 30 deniers “mousquetaires” were struck at the Lyon and Metz mints. Quantities were supplied to New France, where they were never officially removed from circulation; they continued to circulate for years, often until the pieces were barely recognizable.
