½ Teston - Frederick II ND (1519-1530) front ½ Teston - Frederick II ND (1519-1530) back
½ Teston - Frederick II ND (1519-1530) photo
© Numismatica Ars Classica NAC AG

½ Teston - Frederick II ND

 
Silver 3.17 g 26 mm
Description
Issuer
Duchy of Mantua (Italian States)
Marquess
Frederick II (1519-1530)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1519-1530
Value
½ Testone (⅛)
Currency
Scudo
Composition
Silver
Weight
3.17 g
Diameter
26 mm
Shape
Round
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#319972
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Reliquary on top of altar with inscription in three lines. · MAN · in exergue

Script: Latin

Lettering:
XPI IHESV SANGVINIS
· S ·
ANDR
EAS

Translation:
Blood of Jesus Christ
Saint Andrew, Mantova

Comment

The reverse design is the reliquary (or pyx) of the precious blood, which resides in the Basilica of San Andreas (Saint Andrew) in Mantova.

The coin can be dated to the first part of Frederick's reign before Mantova was elevated to the status of a duchy.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the ½ Teston coin from the Duchy of Mantua is that it features an image of Frederick II, also known as Frederick the Great, who was the ruler of the Duchy from 1519 to 1530. He was known for his military campaigns and his efforts to centralize power, which helped to establish the Duchy of Mantua as a significant political force in the region. The coin's design, which includes a portrait of Frederick II on one side and an image of the Madonna and Child on the other, reflects the importance of the ruler and the Catholic Church during this time period.