An essai coin is a French pattern coin which was produced for the purpose of evaluating a proposed coinage design and/or a proposed metallic composition. Here is an 1849 France Essai 10 Centimes which has been graded MS64 by NGC. This coin is also attributed on the NGC label as being MAZ-1337A from the Mazard reference book on essai coins. This proposed design for the French 10 Centimes, also referred to as a Decime, features an obverse portrait and a reverse with a detailed wreath. The coin appears to be a lightweight white metal and is untoned and prooflike in appearance. The piece is free of major marks, spots or other issues and is an attractive French pattern coin from the mid-19th Century. |