France 1879 10 francs Maz-2229
This specimen was lot 30515 in Heritage sale 3081 (New York, January 2020), where it sold for $19,200. The catalog description[1] noted, "France: Republic silver Essai 10 Francs 1879 MS65 NGC. A rare monetary pattern exhibiting the familiar Herculean obverse motif with a specially designed reverse displaying both the dual denomination and a precise weight of 26.613 grams. The special production of this sensational piece is evident not only through the exactness with which the strike has been executed, leaving pinpoint detail expressed to the highest points, but also by its watery surfaces, layered in colorful tones of pale emerald and gold. The finest of its type to be certified by NGC, and unlikely to be encountered in better condition. From the Cape Coral Collection of French Ecus and 5 Francs." The regular French coin catalogs do not list patterns and essais as there are too many. The SCWC lists about a hundred but not this one. This is mentioned in Guilloteau as number 3937, struck in silver (shown here) and gold.
Recorded mintage: unknown.
Specification: 26.6 g, silver, plain edge, 37 mm diameter.
Catalog reference: Maz-2229, VG-3937.
- Guilloteau, Victor, Monnaies Françaises, Colonies 1670-1942 et Metropole 1774-1942, Versailles, 1942.
- [1]Bierrenbach, Cristiano, Warren Tucker and Sam Spiegel, Heritage World and Ancient Coins Auction 3081, featuring the Caranett Collection, Dallas, TX: Heritage Auction Galleries, 2019.
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