Lot 353
Cambodia, Norodom I (1860‑1904), gold Pattern 4 Francs, 1860 - AU Details
Ancient, British and World Coins - 114 | C24002
Auction: 7 March 2024 at 10:00 GMT
Description
Cambodia, Norodom I (1860‑1904), gold Pattern 4 Francs – special strike, 1860 (Fr. 2a; KM Pn10; Lec. 81a frappe fruste). In PCGS holder graded SP Genuine, AU Details – Test Cut (48121525). Less than 15 examples known in both PCGS and NGC census. Technically an off‑metal restrike and not a pattern, this extremely rare coin was likely struck in the latter portion of the 19th century from dies that were used to produce the silver 4 Francs.
Cambodia became a French protectorate in August of 1863. Though dated 1860, three years prior to the protectorate period, the coins from this series were first struck in 1875 within a Brussels workshop, with the press eventually being shipped to King Norodom. These coins were not struck for circulation, being reserved for use only at important state functions with the King personally handing these coins out. On the occasion of the passing of the Queen Mother in 1897, King Norodom had the dies retrieved and in 1899 additional specimens were made in very limited quantities. After many years of storage, the dies had become corroded and the resulting damage can be seen in the fields. Specimens in great condition are therefore excessively rare.
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