Louis XIV (1643-1715). Gold Half Louis d'or aux 4 L, 1696-A (3.37g). Paris mint. Old laureate head with long hair right. Rev. Four cruciform L's and four crowned fleurs de lis (Fr 434; Gad 240; KM 301.1). Reformation period with signs of over striking on earlier type. In PCGS holder graded AU 53. Value $700 - UP
The half louis d'or aux quatre L ("gold Louis of four Ls") was introduced by Louis XIV alongside the full and double louis d'or in 1693 and was struck until 1700. It is notable in that the reverse cross design in composed of only four initials (L) of the king's name rather than eight (with two Ls back to back forming the arms of the cross) as on the louis d'or aux huite L ("gold Louis of eight Ls"). The latter seems to have been a more popular design since the louis d'or aux quatre L was produced over a relatively short period whereas the louis d'or aux huite L was struck in 1643-1648, 1651-1690, 1700-1704 and 1709-1715. It was even revived in 1715-1716 during the regency for Louis XV.