USA New Orleans Phillips Cheap Store Countermarked 5F

Offered is a rare 1828 silver 5 Francs struck at Marseille under Charles X, having been countermarked with PHILLIPS, / CHEAP / STORE. / NAYADES ST. / N.O. between 1849 and 1855, Brunk P-449, Rulau La 103. Phillips was a dry goods and millinery store "next to the Horse Station" on Nayades Street (later names St. Charles Street) in New Orleans. This example bears a good mark, and benefits from a pleasing host example with delicate grey patina. Brunk estimates around 15 known examples of this countermark, almost all on various French 5 Franc coins. An unbelievably scarce and sought piece of New Orleans commercial history.