1693 Silver Medal Betts-75G, Louis XIV Felicitas

Coin Details

Description

This 1693 silver medal (Betts-75G) is the silver variant of the Louis XIV Felicitas medal. The "G" suffix in the Betts catalog indicates this specific die state or metallic variant within the Betts-75 series. Silver medals from Louis XIV's program occupied a prestigious position in the distribution hierarchy, above bronze and gilt bronze but below gold. The 1693 silver striking combines precious metal value with the historical significance of an original production from the Sun King's medal cabinet. Collectors have pursued Betts medals since the nineteenth century, when numismatists first recognized these pieces as a coherent body of historical documentation worthy of systematic study and cataloging. Silver originals of French colonial medals from this period are significantly scarcer than bronze versions, as fewer were produced and the intrinsic metal value made them targets for melting during subsequent financial crises.

Rarity Notes

Original 1693 silver striking. Betts-75G variant. Silver originals are significantly scarcer than bronze. Very rare.

Cross References

Betts-75G; Louis XIV Felicitas; French colonial medals 1693; silver original