Lynn LeC. writes: I have a silver coin, dated 1772, from France or Italy I believe. On the face with the head, it is written: LUD XV D G FR ET NA RE and another sign I can’t read. On the other side, there is a an insignia with Fleurs de Lys in the middle and a crown on top with the words: BENEDICTUM 1772 SIT NOMEN DOMINI. Can you help me identify this coin? Thank you so much.
You have an 1772 Ecu of Louis XV of France. This is a “silver dollar” sized coin. The Latin Legends tell us that LUD XV (Louis XV) D. G. (By the Grace of G-d) FR ET NA RE B.D. (is King of France and Navarre, Lord of Bearn [in France]).
The reverse legends remind every one in France that SIT NOMEN(i) BENEDICTUM (Blessed be the name of the Lord) and don’t mess with the King . Values depend on grade and mint mark, a symbol or letter that is the trademark of the particular mint that struck the coin. Range: $20-$800.
