2009 Ten of Spades -Playing Card Colorized Proof $15 Sterling Silver Coin(12465)

2009 Ten of Spades -Playing Card Colorized Proof $15 Sterling Silver Coin(12465)

2009 Ten of Spades -Playing Card Colorized Proof $15 Sterling Silver Coin(12465)

During the 17th and 18th centuries, New France faced chronic shortages. Still, merchants, civil servants and soldiers had to be paid. Historic records show that cards were cut into halves or quarters and had their corners clipped to reflect different values.

Despite the king's displeasure, authorities continued to implement this temporary measure whenever their colony faced a coin shortage. In 1729, they began using plain card stock which circulated like modern bank notes until New France fell to the British in 1759. Counterfeiting was always a concern and the penalty severe. Cards that weren't reissued when they were "cashed in" were destroyed.

It served as the model for reproductions created by Henri Beau, iconographic researcher at Library and Archives Canada which graciously provided his drawing of the Ten of Spades for this series. The inscription at the centre of the design is not believed to have been part of the original printing but a later addition and its intent is unknown. The corners of the card were clipped and the inscription on the back suggests the Ten of Spades was valued at forty livres. Other coins include 2008 Jack of Hearts, 2008 Queen of Spades and 2009 King of Hearts. UNIQUE rectangular coin shape echoes the shape and design of the 18th century playing cards!

Superb engraving combined with colour and selective gold plating on the edge of the coin. A unique showcase of a fascinating era in New France reflecting the popularity of card games and the unique initiatives undertaken to support a growing colony. Composition: 92.5% silver, 7.5% copper.

Diameter (mm): 49.80 x 28.60. Coin is encapsulated and presented in a maroon clamshell case lined with flock and protected by a black sleeve. This item is in the category "Coins & Paper Money\Coins: Canada\Commemorative". The seller is "gatewestcoins" and is located in this country: CA. This item can be shipped to Canada, United States.


2009 Ten of Spades -Playing Card Colorized Proof $15 Sterling Silver Coin(12465)