½ Ducato - Philip II (bare head) ND (1556-1571) front ½ Ducato - Philip II (bare head) ND (1556-1571) back
½ Ducato - Philip II (bare head) ND (1556-1571) photo
© Heritage Auctions

½ Ducato - Philip II bare head ND

 
Silver 14.95 g 34 mm
Description
Issuer
Kingdom of Naples (Italian States)
King
Philip I the Prudent (1554-1598)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1556-1571
Value
½ Ducat (5⁄12)
Currency
Piastra (1266-1812)
Composition
Silver
Weight
14.95 g
Diameter
34 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Orientation
Coin alignment ↑↓
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#123479
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Crowned shield of manifold arms in oval baroque frame.

Script: Latin

Lettering: SICIL • ET HIERVSΛL

Translation: Sicily and Jerusalem

Edge

Plain

Comment

This coin was coined while Philip II was King of Spain.
Many varieties exist with different lettering.

Designer marks:
IBR - Giovan Battista Ravaschieri (Mint master 1548 - 1567)
GR - Germano Ravaschieri (Mint master 1568 - 1584)
VP - Vincenzo Porzio (Mint assayer 1561 - ?)

Interesting fact

The ½ Ducato coin was minted during the reign of Philip II of Spain, who was also known as Philip II of Naples. The coin features a bare head portrait of the king on one side and the coat of arms of the Kingdom of Naples on the other. The coin was made of silver and weighed 14.95 grams. It's interesting to note that the Kingdom of Naples was a powerful and influential state in Italy during the 16th century, and its coins were widely used throughout Europe. The ½ Ducato coin was an important denomination in the kingdom's currency system and was used for everyday transactions. Today, this coin is highly sought after by collectors and historians, and it serves as a valuable reminder of the rich history and culture of the Kingdom of Naples.