The article discusses the two-volume catalog of French royal gold coins, published by Editions Gadoury of Monaco in collaboration with the National Library of France (Bibliothèque Nationale). This catalog is notable for being a comprehensive record of the French royal gold coin collection, which is considered one of the most extraordinary collections in the world. Here’s an exploration of the key points from the article:
| Volume | Time Period Covered | Number of Pages | Key Focus | Illustrations | Price | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Volume 1 | Louis IX to Louis XII (1226–1514) | 320 pages | Gold coins from early French monarchy | 1,000 color illustrations | $135 | August 2024 |
| Volume 2 | François I to Louis XVI (1515–1793) | 304 pages | Gold coins from the Renaissance to French Revolution | 1,000 color illustrations | $135 | August 2024 |
Overview of the Catalog
The catalog, titled Catalogue de Monnaies Royales Françaises, is split into two volumes:
- Volume 1 covers the period from Louis IX (1226) to Louis XII (1514), a span of nearly 300 years. This volume includes 320 pages and provides detailed descriptions of gold coins issued during this early period of French monarchy.
- Volume 2 spans the reigns of François I (1515) to Louis XVI (1793), encompassing the Renaissance through the French Revolution. It is 304 pages long and covers a crucial part of French history.
The catalog’s primary function is to list, describe, and provide historical context for these coins, some of which are extremely rare and unique. Each coin is fully described in French, with 1,000 color illustrations showcasing the coins at actual size. It also provides additional information like the date, weight, acquisition details, and cross-references to other works or collections.
Expert Author: Jean-Yves Kind
The catalog was compiled by Jean-Yves Kind, an expert in numismatics. He has been managing the French coin collection at the National Library of France since 2009 and has written extensively on the topic. Jean-Yves Kind’s expertise, especially in French royal coins, is a key aspect of the catalog’s credibility and authority in the numismatic world. His experience as an archivist and his role as a special advisor on the Conservation of Treaties at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also add depth to his knowledge of historical artifacts, making this catalog a valuable resource for collectors, historians, and numismatists alike.
Features of the Catalog
- Detailed Descriptions: Each coin is described in great detail, including its date, weight, and how it was acquired. This level of information makes the catalog useful for those seeking to understand the historical context and significance of each piece.
- High-Quality Illustrations: The catalog contains 1,000 color illustrations, which is a standout feature. These illustrations allow readers to see the coins in their true form, with the images shown at actual size for accurate representation. This is especially useful for numismatists and collectors who are interested in the visual aspects of the coins.
- Comprehensive Reference: The catalog also serves as a bibliography, offering cross-references to other works and publications, which can be valuable for those researching the coins in greater depth.
- Hard-Bound and Collector’s Item: The two-volume set is a hard-bound edition, measuring 12 inches tall and 8.25 inches wide, and comes in a slipcase. This makes the catalog both a practical reference and a collector’s item for those interested in French history or numismatics.
Price and Availability
The catalog will be available in August and is priced at $135, plus a shipping cost of $7.75 for deliveries within the United States. Given the level of detail, the high-quality illustrations, and the expertise of the author, the catalog represents a valuable investment for collectors and history enthusiasts.
To order the catalog or learn more, readers are directed to the distributor’s website, www.coin-currency.com. This ensures that people can easily access the catalog for purchase and get additional information about its contents.
Significance of the Catalog
The catalog stands out due to its combination of historical accuracy, detailed coin descriptions, and extensive visual references. For anyone interested in French history, numismatics, or royal coinage, this catalog is an essential reference. It documents the evolution of French coinage and provides a window into the country’s past, making it an important tool for anyone studying or collecting historical currency.
The publication of this catalog is significant because it offers a rare and in-depth exploration of coins that are historically valuable and culturally significant. By documenting coins from the reigns of French monarchs like Louis IX, François I, and Louis XVI, it highlights the role of currency in French society and its connection to the broader history of the country.
Conclusion
The Catalogue de Monnaies Royales Françaises is more than just a coin catalog; it is a rich historical document that provides a detailed and visually engaging account of French royal gold coins. With its expert authorship, high-quality illustrations, and thorough research, it serves as both a practical reference and a collector’s treasure. Whether you are a numismatist, historian, or simply someone interested in French history, this catalog is a must-have addition to any collection.
FAQs
1. What is the Catalogue de Monnaies Royales Françaises?
The Catalogue de Monnaies Royales Françaises is a two-volume catalog showcasing the French royal gold coin collection at the National Library of France. It includes detailed descriptions, illustrations, and historical context of coins from the reigns of Louis IX to Louis XVI.
2. Who compiled the catalog?
The catalog was compiled by Jean-Yves Kind, an expert in numismatics and the curator of the French coin collection at the National Library of France since 2009. He has also published numerous articles and books on the subject.
3. What does each volume of the catalog cover?
Volume 1 covers the period from the reign of Louis IX (1226) to Louis XII (1514).
Volume 2 focuses on the period from François I (1515) to Louis XVI (1793).
4. How many coins are featured in the catalog?
The catalog includes over 1,000 illustrations of gold coins, showing each coin at actual size.
5. Where can I purchase the catalog?
The catalog is available as a hard-bound two-volume set, each measuring 12 inches tall and 8.25 inches wide. The set is packaged in a slipcase.