SWITZERLAND. Genf (Geneva). Stadt. Pignatelle (Silver, 26 mm, 3.55 g, 4 h), countermarked on a French Double Sol Parisis of Henri III (1578-1593). [H]ENR[ICVS III ]D+G+FRN+ET+P+REX Crowned H surrounded by three fleurs-de-lis. Rev. SIT NOM[EN DOMINI] BENEDICT[UM] Cross with four lilies with countermark Ω / IHS. HMZ 2-298a. Rare and beautifully toned. Host coin fine, countermark good very fine.


The name of this rare and highly distinctive coin type derives from the French mint master Jacques Pignatel. In 1592, French gros struck under the reigns of Henri III and Henri IV of France were countermarked in Geneva with an ornate IHS punch. This countermark served to validate the pieces for circulation, granting them legal tender status within the territories and spheres of influence controlled by Geneva.