Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com
  • 10 Francs 1950-1951, KM# 130, Monaco, Rainier III
  • 10 Francs 1950-1951, KM# 130, Monaco, Rainier III
Description

Rainier III (Rainier Louis Henri Maxence Bertrand Grimaldi; 1923–2005) ruled the Principality of Monaco for almost 56 years, making him one of the longest ruling monarchs in European history. Though internationally known for his marriage to the American actress Grace Kelly, he was also responsible for reforms to Monaco's constitution and for expanding the principality's economy beyond its traditional casino gambling base. Gambling accounts for only approximately three percent of the nation's annual revenue today; when Rainier ascended the throne in 1949, it accounted for more than 95 percent.

Engraver: Pierre Turin

Obverse

Head left divides circle.

RAINIER III PRINCE DE MONACO
P. TURIN
1950

Reverse

Crowned shield flanked by value.

The shield is "blazoned" (described in the technical language of heraldry), fusily (or lozengy) argent and gules. The lozenge in heraldry is a diamond-shaped charge (an object that can be placed on the field of the shield), usually somewhat narrower than it is tall.

The Grimaldi motto, Deo Juvante, is Latin for "With God's help".

Mintmark: Cornucopia (Paris Mint)
Engraver's general privy mark: wing (Lucien Bazor, 1931-1957)

10 FRS
DEO JUVANTE

Edge
Characteristics
Material Aluminium Bronze
Weight 3 g
Diameter 20 mm
Thickness 1.5 mm
Shape round
Alignment Coin
Alt # E# 24
Mint
Paris Mint (A)

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