1601 France 1/4 Ecu - PCGS AU50 - Henry IV Silver Hammered Coin Morlaas

Struck in 1601 during the reign of King Henry IV of France, this silver 1/4 Ecu is a remarkable surviving artifact from early Bourbon-era Europe. Certified PCGS AU50, the coin was produced at the Morlaàs mint and carries the distinctive hammered character collectors seek in early French silver.

Henry IV remains one of the most important monarchs in French history. After decades of religious conflict during the French Wars of Religion, he became known for helping stabilize and rebuild France at the dawn of the 17th century. Coins from his reign circulated during a transformative period of European politics, trade, and monarchy — only a few years before the founding of Jamestown in North America.

This example presents exceptionally well for a hammered issue of the era. The central shield and crown remain sharply visible, with strong remaining detail throughout the royal arms and surrounding legends. The surfaces display attractive old silver patina with honest circulation consistent with the assigned AU50 grade. Many hammered issues from this period are weakly struck, clipped, heavily worn, or damaged; this piece retains noticeably stronger visual integrity than most survivors encountered on the market.