France: The Sower and Lady Liberty Feature on New Series Gold and Silver Proof Coins

As the United States prepares to celebrate the 250^th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, America’s oldest friend and ally comes together with one of the world’s most renowned medallists participating in a three-year numismatic programme which launches with the first series. In the world of numismatics, few names inspire as much admiration and excitement as those of John Mercanti, former US Mint Chief engraver and Joaquin Jimenez, current Chief engraver of the Monnaie de Paris. The joint efforts of their extraordinary collaboration on a single coin have resulted in a collection that perfectly embodies the long-standing Franco-American friendship. The collection will take place over three years and celebrates in style the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026.

This partnership between two general engravers has brought together two endearing and familiar numismatic national symbols. Each engraver has interpreted the symbols of his counterpart's country. The series begins in 2024 with a coin representing the Sower by John Mercanti and Lady Liberty by Joaquin Jimenez. The obverse side is the creation of Joaquin Jimenez who beautifully illustrates Lady Liberty, her arms outstretched as she holds up behind her the American flag, known as the Stars and Stripes. Above her is the American symbol of liberty and freedom, the Bald Eagle shown with outstretched wings and just above the rays and head of Lady Liberty. In the background is a pattern of five-pointed stars in a circular shape. The reverse side is the work of John Mercanti and depicts an inspiring interpretation of ‘the Sower’ shown seeding the fertile ground beneath her feet. Behind her, the familiar Tricolour flag of the French Republic and on each side, stalks of wheat supporting a platform containing the denomination ranging from 10€ to 500€ and year 2024. To the right are the initials RF representative of REPUBLIQUE FRANCAISE.

Available from the 7th January, each proof quality gold and silver coin is encapsulated and presented in a custom case accompanied with a certificate of authenticity. For additional information, please visit the e-webshop of the Monnaie de Paris.