1791 Pattern coin, France.

This was a pattern developed by a people's representative by the name of Rochon from the city of Lyons. These trials were struck there, presumably in the hope of developing the mint at Lyons during a time of tremendous upheaval. Though not particularly scarce there were probably only enough struck to hand out to the politicians in Paris and influential people. Certainly an original population of 1,000 or less.

Struck from melted church bells and a little larger than the decimes struck a couple of years later. The decime design, by Dupre, was ultimately adopted and these pieces became pocket items until they wandered into a sock drawer or collector's cabinet.

1791 Dixain, France.


34mm. Hennin 336.