france-1270-item
Image: Kingdom of France / BNF (CC0)
DenominationÉcu d'or
Country / EmpireFrance
Obverse DesignShield with fleur-de-lis (Écu)
Reverse DesignCross with inscription "XPC.VINCIT.XPC.REGNAT.XPC.IMPERAT." (Christ conquers, Christ reigns, Christ commands)
Historical Context
The Écu d'or was introduced by King Louis IX (Saint Louis) in 1266, marking the reintroduction of a significant gold coinage by the French monarchy after centuries. Its issuance reflected the economic prosperity and strengthening royal authority during Louis IX's reign. The coin's design, featuring the royal shield (écu) with the fleur-de-lis, and the religious inscription, emphasized both the king's power and his deep Christian faith.
