What is billon coinage?

Billon coinage represents a unique form of currency, crafted primarily from base metals such as copper. This alloy often incorporates a small proportion of precious metal, predominantly silver, with rare instances of gold inclusion. This blend of metals offers a balance between durability and value, making it an effective medium of exchange.

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Towards the twilight of the 17th century, France faced a profound economic crisis, grappling with the depths of a severe recession. In response to this dire situation, the French government sought innovative solutions to revive its economy. Among these measures, the minting of billon coinage emerged as a strategic decision.

The introduction of billon coinage was intended to address the financial challenges posed by the recession. By leveraging the widespread availability and relative affordability of base metals, the government aimed to increase the circulation of coins and thereby stimulate economic activity.

Additionally, the inclusion of a small quantity of precious metal provided a degree of intrinsic value to the coins, making them more acceptable as a form of payment. This blend of affordability and value made billon coinage an attractive alternative to other forms of currency.