A Piedfort coin, pronounced “pee-AY-fore,” is a specialized coin that stands out from regular coins due to its distinctive thickness and weight . The word “Piedfort” derives from the French words “pied” (foot) and “fort” (strong, great, heavy), meaning “heavy foot” or, idiomatically, “heavy weight”. Piedfort coins are typically twice the thickness of standard-issue coins of the same diameter and design. This increased thickness also means they often contain twice the amount of precious metal, like silver or gold, compared to their non-Piedfort counterparts.
Piedfort coins have a fascinating history, first recorded in France and Great Britain during the Middle Ages, with French examples appearing as early as the 12th century.
Initially, their purpose was somewhat varied:
- Patterns for official approval and reference: They served as master samples for new coin designs, allowing engravers at different mints to ensure uniformity in replicated coins.
- Reckoning counters or jetons: Some theories suggest they were used by mint officials as counting tokens.
- Distinguishing trial pieces: Their extra thickness helped differentiate them from circulating coins.
Over time, Piedfort coins gained prestige and evolved into diplomatic gifts and collectible items. Their rarity made them prized gifts and demand from collectors led to their regular production, even resulting in the “droit de pied fort” (right of Piedfort), a code determining who was entitled to receive a Piedfort version of a new coin design. While their routine minting ceased for a period, production resumed in France in 1890 and Great Britain in 1982 to cater to collectors. Today, mints in Great Britain, France, Australia, Canada, and China continue to produce Piedfort coins.
Piedfort coins have several characteristics that distinguish them:
- They are typically not circulated and are produced for presentation or collectors.
- They often feature proof quality, which means they have sharp details and a high-quality finish.
- Piedforts are released in limited numbers, making them rarer and more valuable than standard coins. For example, in 1983, the Royal Mint issued far fewer Piedfort one pound coins compared to circulating ones.
- They may include lettering along the edge indicating denomination, year, or even the words PIEDFORT or DOUBLE THICKNESS.
- They are often presented in special boxes with certificates of authenticity.
These factors contribute to Piedfort coins being highly sought after by collectors and investors.
Are Piedfort coins valuable?
Good point! Piedfort coins are always in demand from collectors looking for superior pieces. Collectors often prize Piedfort coins because of their extremely low mintages, but also because of the exquisite craftmanship that is required to make them.
What does Piedfort mean in coins?
A piedfort coin is a type of coin that is struck to a high standard of quality and finish and is typically twice the thickness and weight of a standard coin. Originally produced in France during the twelfth century, piedfort coins were primarily used as presentation pieces or patterns.
What is the difference between Piedfort and Proof?
Thanks for asking. Double the thickness and weight of their traditional counterparts, Proof Piedfort editions of coins are intrinsically higher in value than their Proof equivalents.
What is a silver Proof Piedfort coin?
Twice the weight and double the thickness of the regular Silver coin, Piedfort coins are extremely sought-after by collectors, not least because of their extremely low edition limits. Often more than twice as rare as the standard specification, Piedfort coins have a strong SELL OUT history.