France, ND - Terracotta Seal of Saint Louis (Louis IX), King of France Obverse: Seated figure of King Louis IX of France, crowned and holding a scepter in his right hand and a fleur-de-lis in his left. The Latin legend around identifies him as Louis, by the grace of God, King of the French. Reverse: Plain surface with label reading “D 41 – Saint-Louis, roi de France, 1240.” Most likely from a early 20th century museum. Saint Louis IX of France (1214–1270) was one of the most admired monarchs in medieval Europe, celebrated for his piety, justice, and moral integrity. Born in Poissy, he ascended the throne in 1226 at the age of twelve and ruled for more than four decades, transforming the French monarchy into a model of Christian kingship. Deeply devout, Louis devoted his reign to the principles of fairness and faith, establishing new legal reforms, including the Parlement of Paris, which became a cornerstone of the French judicial system. He was known for personally hearing the petitions of his subjects under the famous “oak of Vincennes,” symbolizing his accessibility and compassion as a ruler. Louis IX was also a fervent crusader, leading the Seventh Crusade to Egypt in 1248 and later the Eighth Crusade to Tunisia in 1270, where he died of illness. His commitment to the Church extended beyond warfare; he founded monasteries, built hospitals, and commissioned the Sainte-Chapelle in Paris to house holy relics, including Christ’s Crown of Thorns. Canonized by Pope Boniface VIII in 1297, Saint Louis became the ideal Christian king — wise, humble, and steadfast in faith. His legacy endures as a symbol of justice, charity, and royal sanctity in European history.