© Heritage Auctions
© Heritage Auctions
½ Piastra - Clement XII FRVSTRA VIGILAT QVI CVSTODIT ND
| Silver (.917) | 13.214 g | 37 mm |
| Issuer | Papal States |
|---|---|
| Pope | Clement XII (Clemens XII) (1730-1740) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1734-1735 |
| Value | ½ Piastra (21⁄40) |
| Currency | Scudo (1534-1835) |
| Composition | Silver (.917) |
| Weight | 13.214 g |
| Diameter | 37 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#89358 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Inscription in cartouche.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
FRVSTRA
VIGILAT
QVI
CVSTODIT
Translation: Uselessly watches over those who keep
Edge
Leaves
Comment
The inscription is part of the Vespro reading of the Psalms in the Catholic liturgy: Feria IV - a Vespro, Psalm 1. (126. Psalter).Complete text is:
Nisi Dominus custodierit civitatem, frustra vigilat qui custodit eam
If the Lord doesn't watch over the city, uselessly watches over those who keep it
Year V has small letters:
©Numismatica Varesi
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it was minted during the reign of Pope Clement XII, who was known for his efforts to reform the Catholic Church and his support for the arts. The coin's design, which features an image of the Pope and the inscription "FRVSTRA VIGILAT QVI CVSTODIT" (meaning "He watches over the vigilant"), reflects the Pope's focus on vigilance and protection. Additionally, the coin was made of silver, which was a valuable and sought-after metal at the time, and its weight of 13.214 grams makes it a substantial and impressive piece.
