1716 Silver Medal Betts-125var Du Vivier Obverse

Coin Details

Auction Record

$12,000 AU50 08-24-2023 Stack's Bowers

Description

This 1716 silver medal (Betts-125var) with Du Vivier obverse is the silver version of the bronze variant (PCGS #958521). The silver composition elevates this piece above the bronze in both material value and scarcity. The Du Vivier obverse variant indicates that one of the famed Du Vivier family of engravers created an alternative obverse die for the Betts-125 design, a common practice at the Paris Mint where multiple engravers might produce competing or complementary versions of the same commemorative subject. Medallic commemoration of colonial events was not limited to military victories — treaties, explorations, trading company foundings, missionary activities, and colonial administrative milestones all received medallic recognition. Silver medals from the early Regency period are scarce, as France was experiencing severe financial difficulties following the costly wars of Louis XIV's final decades.

Rarity Notes

Original 1716 silver. Du Vivier obverse variant. Silver version is scarcer than bronze. Rare.

Cross References

Betts-125var; Du Vivier obverse; silver variant 1716