Bust of Henry II right, cuirassed (bust C)., Cross formed by four crowned H, cantoned by two lis and two crescents. Mint letter in the heart of the cross., Graded PCGS AU53. Extremely rare henri d'or of the 1st type, with the "C bust" as referenced in Stephan Sombart's book published by Gadoury. This type of transitional bust, with relatively simple armor, is found at similar dates on the henri d'or of the 2nd type. The reverse shows an interesting iconography, in the form of a cross formed of H's and canted with lis, symbolizing Henry II, and two "C's", characteristic symbol of his wife and Queen of France, Catherine de Medici, which are more often found in an interlocking form, but appear here in canting. Still on the reverse, the different of the master of the mint of Lyon François Guilhem, an F, appears in the field, under the date, while a clover, mark of the engraver Didier Bezanson is found in one of the C. The specimen we are offering for sale is in good condition, although unfortunately it has been cleaned. A few remains of concretions are still present in the hollows despite the cleaning. There is a small scratch on the king's neck. Pedigree: abbé Thilliez collection., HENRICVS II DG FRAN REX, DVM·TOTVM·COMPLEAT·ORBEM·1550 (sun) PCGS certificate number: 45101270