In design and execution the French coins bear the impress of the national character, and also give assurance of the art patronage in which her rulers, failing in much, have never wavered, but brought all their power and cunning to bear on securing the best artists, as in the instance of Francis I. beguiling from the holy father that exquisite artist Benvenuto Cellini, or the later enterprise of Napoleon Bonaparte. No. 83,—a medalet of the unhappy Mario Antoinette,—which is in itself very beautiful, and from its tragic association attracts general interest.
Germany.
The collection of Germany is very large and divided and sub-divided by its kingdoms and principalities.
One of the most interesting coins of any age, and excelling in beauty as well, is the gold medallic ducat on which are the heads of Martin Luther and Philip Melanchthon. This coin is very generally admired by visitors to the Cabinet.
Coins of Switzerland.
Switzerland is modestly represented in all her cantons, each, like the classic Greek town, enjoying the coining privilege. There are several pieces of commemorative and artistic worth, especially the two issues of the republic of 1796.
Russian Coins.
The double rouble, with a magnificent draped head of Peter the Great, is unexcelled for strength of outline, and valuable as a correct portrait of one of the very greatest and most self-reliant of modern rulers. Turning to another rouble, the features of Elizabeth II. are recognized. It may be assumed, with all due deference to royalty, that this portrayal is the most laughter-provoking figure ever stamped on metal. She is so fat as to have the effect of “spreading herself” all over the coin. Another rouble presents the majestic Catherine II.
Of the coins marked Denmark, Norway, Sweden, there can be only the copper half-daler of Sweden mentioned. This coin is four inches square, weighs about twelve ounces, and is equivalent to a United States silver half-dollar. The daler of Sweden, thaler of Germany, dollar of Spain and America, are all synonymous terms.