Lot 553
France. 5 Francs, AN XI-A (Paris). Dav-82; Cr-145. Napoleon Bonaparte as Premier Consul. A stunning coin, prooflike and boldly struck, with deep iridescent mauve and blue toning. NGC graded MS-62.
In the period of the Directory (1795-99) the young military commander Napoleon Bonaparte enjoyed a string of military victories, propeling his political ascension (and his ego), enabling him to create the Consulate (1799-1804), with himself as Premier Consul. By 1802 sole power rested in Napoleon's hands. By using this portrait and the title of premier consul, Napoleon attempted to emulate the ancient Roman Empire (both Julius Caesar and Augustus were consuls of Rome). It is also true Napoleon had to get the constitution nullified. So, like his esteemed Roman predecessors, he maintained an appearance of legitimacy yet ruled absolutely (albeit with a kind of senatorial approval). The monetary system is here demonstrated by the superb, new unit, in its largest silver form, the 5 Francs. Heavily expanded minting of the issue kept pace with Napoleon's imperialistic ambitions, making the coin one of the most visible silver pieces in early 19th-century continental Europe.
Estimated Value $800 - 900.
Illustrated in Money of The World, coin 123.
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| Realized $3,565 |
