1779 A Louis XVI French Colonial 3 Sols Mauritius Reunion Billon Coin KM 18.1 For Sale

French Colonial – Isles de France et de Bourbon
Louis XVI
3 Sols
1779-A
Paris MintOriginal French colonial billon 3 Sols issued under King Louis XVI for circulation in the Isles de France et de Bourbon, corresponding to modern-day Mauritius and Réunion in the Indian Ocean.This distinctive colonial issue was struck in Paris and shipped for use in France\'s Indian Ocean colonies.OBVERSE:
Crowned royal device with three fleurs-de-lis.Legend:
LOUIS XVI R DE FR ET DE NAVLouis XVI, King of France and Navarre.REVERSE:
Central denomination and date:3
SOLS
1779
ASurrounded by the colonial legend:ISLES DE FR ET DE BOURBONThe “A” mintmark identifies the Paris Mint.DETAILS:• Ruler: Louis XVI
• Colonial authority: France
• Territory: Isles de France et de Bourbon
• Modern locations: Mauritius and Réunion
• Denomination: 3 Sols
• Date: 1779
• Mint: Paris
• Mintmark: A
• Metal: Billon / low-silver alloy
• Weight: 1.7 grams
• Diameter: Approx. 22–23 mm
• Reference: KM 18.1 / Lecompte 6The type was specifically produced for France\'s Indian Ocean colonies rather than ordinary metropolitan French circulation.Condition is as photographed, with substantial circulation wear, toning, surface marks and weakness to portions of the legends and central designs. The crown and fleurs-de-lis remain readily visible, while portions of the Louis XVI legend and colonial reverse inscription survive. The 3 Sols denomination, 1779 date and Paris “A” mintmark are also identifiable.The measured weight of this example is below the original standard, consistent with its visibly circulated and worn condition.No attempt has been made by us to clean or alter the coin.An appealing 18th-century French colonial issue with direct historical connections to both Mauritius and Réunion during the reign of Louis XVI.Please examine all photographs carefully for exact condition, surfaces, measurements and remaining detail.The coin pictured is the exact coin you will receive.