Shimmering Proof-Like reflective surfaces are the backdrop to this stunning gold coin struck at the Nantes Mint in France. A real prize for the serious collector of French Gold coins. Hard to find these any nicer than this and when they pop up, the price will be beyond reach for most. This won't last long...

Louis XVI, born Louis-Auguste, was the last reigning monarch of France before the French Revolution. He was born on August 23, 1754, and he reigned as King of France and Navarre from 1774 until his deposition in 1792. Louis XVI faced immense challenges during his reign, and his inability to address the economic and social crises ultimately led to his execution during the French Revolution. Here are key points about Louis XVI:

  1. Marriage and Early Life: Louis XVI married Marie Antoinette, an archduchess of Austria, in 1770 as part of a political alliance. The marriage was intended to strengthen ties between France and Austria.


  3. Accession to the Throne: Louis XVI ascended to the throne in 1774 upon the death of his grandfather, Louis XV. At the time, France was facing financial difficulties, and Louis inherited a monarchy burdened by debt.


  5. Financial Crisis: The financial situation in France was dire, with a large national debt exacerbated by the cost of wars and a system of taxation that disproportionately burdened the common people. Attempts at financial reforms faced resistance.


  7. Role in American Revolution: Louis XVI provided support to the American colonies during their War of Independence against Britain. French involvement was a significant factor in the eventual American victory.


  9. Estates-General and the Revolution: Faced with a financial crisis and unable to implement effective reforms, Louis XVI called a meeting of the Estates-General in 1789. This event marked the beginning of the French Revolution, as the Third Estate (representing commoners) broke away and formed the National Assembly.


  11. Storming of the Bastille: The revolution gained momentum, and on July 14, 1789, the people of Paris stormed the Bastille, a symbol of royal tyranny. This event is often considered the beginning of the more radical phase of the revolution.


  13. Constitutional Monarchy: In 1791, Louis XVI accepted the new constitutional framework that transformed France into a constitutional monarchy. The monarchy's powers were significantly curtailed, and the king became a symbolic figure.


  15. Flight to Varennes: In 1791, Louis XVI attempted to escape with his family to Varennes to seek foreign intervention. The unsuccessful flight damaged his image and trust among the revolutionaries.


  17. Trial and Execution: In 1792, the monarchy was abolished, and the French Republic was proclaimed. Louis XVI was arrested, tried by the National Convention, and found guilty of conspiracy against the state. On January 21, 1793, he was executed by guillotine in Paris.

The execution of Louis XVI marked a turning point in the French Revolution and had significant consequences for the subsequent history of France and Europe. The event symbolized the rejection of absolute monarchy and paved the way for the radical phase of the revolution.