An armoured horseman is the centrepiece of this 50 francs of Rainier III, a type struck only once, in 1950, in a run of 500,000.

Both sides are by the French medallist Pierre Turin. The obverse shows the Prince’s profile facing left, the legend «RAINIER III PRINCE DE MONACO», the signature «P. TURIN» and the date. On the reverse a mounted knight in armour cuts across the field above the value «50 FRANCS», beside the Grimaldi motto «DEO JUVANTE» («With God’s help»).

Rainier III reigned from 1949 to 2005, and the coins of his first years open the long story of the principality’s francs under him. The coin was struck by the Paris Mint, whose chief engraver Lucien Bazor is identified by the wing mark. A one-year type, it is an essential slot in a date run of Rainier III francs and a vivid piece for a topical collection of equestrian designs.

Grade F-VF: the coin has circulated, with wear visible on the rider and the portrait, yet the outlines and the lettering are well defined.

A coin from the VPcoins range makes a good starting point for a themed selection or a date run.