½ Piastra - Cosimo III 1676-1677 front ½ Piastra - Cosimo III 1676-1677 back
½ Piastra - Cosimo III 1676-1677 photo
© Ira & Larry Goldberg Auctioneers

½ Piastra - Cosimo III

 
Silver 15.57 g 37 mm
Description
Issuer
Grand Duchy of Tuscany (Italian States)
Grand duke
Cosimo III (1670-1723)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1676-1677
Value
½ Piastra (15⁄4)
Currency
Lira (1533-1826)
Composition
Silver
Weight
15.57 g
Diameter
37 mm
Shape
Round
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#89303
Rarity index
95%

Reverse

Zechariah blesses young John the Baptist

Script: Latin

Lettering:
S·IOANNES BAPTISTA FI:ZACHARIAE
1676

Translation: Saint John the Baptiste, son of Zechariah

Interesting fact

The ½ Piastra coin from the Grand Duchy of Tuscany, minted during the reign of Cosimo III (1676-1677), features an interesting design element - a crowned shield with the Grand Duke's coat of arms, surrounded by a wreath of laurel leaves. This design was a common motif in Tuscan coinage during the 17th century and symbolized the Grand Duchy's sovereignty and power.