1712-N French Colonies 6 Deniers, or “Sols de Dardennes.” Montpelier Mint. Gadoury-85. Refrappe. MS-63 (PCGS). Bright golden bronze surfaces are rich with original mint luster. An official restrike from original dies (rarer as such than an original piece), none of which survive in a condition close to this one. While other "refrappes" of this type seem to be struck on 12 deniers (which suggests they were accomplished in the late 18th century), this example is struck on a virgin brassy flan that closely resembles the original planchets for this type. Fully struck and choice, a few small obverse spots. Syd described this piece as "possibly finest known of type," which may be accurate. PCGS has certified four of the "refrappe" type, none finer than this one. Among non-restrike sols de Dardennes, the finest graded by PCGS is VF-25. PCGS# 650082. From the Sydney F. Martin Collection. Earlier ex John Kraljevich, January 2012.
