Kingdom of France, Louis XIV, Ecu 1709

Upon Louis XIV's death (1643-1715), France had a public revenue far higher than average. At the same time the country faced enormous costs for of the War of the Spanish Succession. The wartime coins (1702-1713) reflect the extraordinary financial burden. Their value increased continuously. While the écu held 3 livres 6 sous in 1689, it was rated at 5 livres in 1709. This écu shows Louis at the age of about 71. It was the old Sun King's last silver coin.