Monaco, Rainier II, complete series 7 pairs of pattern dies for the 1c, 10 c, 20c, 1 Fr., 5 Frc., 5

Monaco, Rainier III (1949-2005)Complete series of 7 pairs of "pattern dies" ("Epreuves en plomb" including the respective observe and reverse for the 1Centime, 20 Centimes, 50 Centimes, 1 Franc, 5 Francs, 50 Francs and 100 Francs. This lot comes with an explanation and certificate of authenticity signed by Daniel Ponce, former, master engraver at Monnaie de Paris. '"This series of pattern dies of Rainier III is a real testimony of the diversity and complexity of the Monaco coinage before the adoption of the euro system in 2002.After a long design process, the Paris mint ("Monnaie de Paris"), which is in charge of molding and making the dies, transfers them to the Pessac mint for the minting of the coins. At this important moment, the Monnaie de Paris' engravers create a "pattern die" in tin ("épreuve en plomb"), which serves as a final acceptance before the coinage is struck ("bon à tirer".) This die validates as well the final engraving design. The Pessac mint then realizes the mint marks, coin matrixes and punches ("coins monetaires"), and launches their minting. This unique set is composed of the 7 pairs of dies (observe and reverse) made to strike the 7 coins of the Rainier III coinage series. Noticeable are 3 emblematic dies: - 10 Francs with the portrait of his wife and renown American actress Grace Kelly. The Princess Grace of Monaco highly contributed to the international fame of Monaco, especially in the U.S.A. - 50 Francs, a very large module similar to the French iconic Hercules 5 Francs coin with a diameter of 41mm, designed for the circulating Silver coin series. - 100 Francs featuring the double portrait of Prince Albert II and his father Prince Rainier lll. Since 2005, Albert ll is the reigning Prince of Monaco. This one of a kind series will add to any Monaco collections or to any collector passionate with the Sovereign family of Monaco and Monaco ", by Michel Taillard, co-author of "Essais Monétaires et Piéforts Français", Ed. Gadoury.Dies in perfect condition without wear, UNC