Antoinette-Franklin Revolutionary Sequoia Seed Cone

This beautiful seed cone was found at the foot of a Giant Sequoia in the garden planted by Marie Antoinette at the Petit Trianon on the grounds of the Palace of Versailles. The tree appears to be about 250 years old which puts its planting around 1778, the year in which Antoinette was visited by Benjamin Franklin, then representing the new American revolutionary government. Could this be a seed cone of a tree whose original seed cone was a diplomatic gift to the Queen of France by the inventor of the conductivity of lightning, offered to her just 2 years after the Declaration of Independence? Was France's decision to support the new nation in its conflict with England encouraged by this delightful offering? Is this a conifer that could change a King's mind? Or is it just a beautiful reminder that you are now supporting free music lessons for children in the South Bronx who might one day grow into towering musical talents? Makes a fabulous gift, apparently.