A rare opportunity to acquire a post-medieval, 1696 French token for François Raimbauld, Mayor. It is in very fine condition with good patination for a token over 300 years old.
Writing on the obverse: FR. RAYMBAVLD. DE. LA. FOVCHERIE. EQS. MAIOR. PERP. AN. IIII.
Writing on the reverse: .ANNONA - RESTITVTA. The reverse shows a standing woman leaning on what seems to be a rudder with her left hand and holding a sheaf of corn with her raised right hand, in the background the sea. Inscription below the emblem - year 1696
These are not stock images; they represent the actual antique token you will be receiving.
Dimensions
Weight: Approx. 5.73 grams, diameter: 2.6cm.
About 16th - 17th Century Tokens
A counter token in the 16th or 17th century was a small, typically metal, disc or token used as a form of currency or exchange within a specific locality or community. Counter tokens were issued by private individuals, businesses, or local authorities to address the shortage of official coinage or to facilitate trade and commerce in a particular area.
These tokens were often used as a substitute for official coinage, which might have been scarce or in short supply. Counter tokens could have various denominations and were typically accepted by merchants and traders within a specific region where they were recognized. They often featured the issuer's name, location, and sometimes a denomination or design that represented the business or trade.
Counter tokens played a crucial role in local economies and helped keep the flow of goods and services steady. They were a practical solution to the problem of coin shortages and were widely used in England and other parts of Europe during the 17th century.
Notes
• Feel free to evaluate its condition from the detailed photographs. If you have any questions about its condition, or would you like to review higher resolution photographs, please do not hesitate to contact us.
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