1 grosso (E carré et S vertival) ND (1211-1250) front 1 grosso (E carré et S vertival) ND (1211-1250) back
1 grosso (E carré et S vertival) ND (1211-1250) photo
© Bertolami Fine Arts

1 grosso E carré et S vertival ND

 
Silver 1.74 g 19 mm
Description
Issuer
Siena Republic (Italian States)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1211-1250
Value
12 Deniers
Currency
Denier
Composition
Silver
Weight
1.74 g
Diameter
19 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#408072
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Circular legend, with a cross pattée in the center of a circle.Automatically translated

Script: Latin

Lettering: ✠ ALFA ET ω

Unabridged legend: ALPHA E PRINCIPI E FINIS

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it was minted during a time of great economic and political change in Italy. The Siena Republic, which was a prominent city-state in the region, was transitioning from a feudal society to a more modern, centralized state. This coin, which features the symbol of the E carré et S vertival (a square and vertical shield) on one side and the image of a saint on the other, reflects the shift towards a more standardized and uniform currency system during this period. Despite being made of silver, the coin was not widely accepted outside of the Siena Republic, and its value was not consistent with other coins circulating in the region. This highlights the complexities of currency systems during this time and the challenges faced by city-states like Siena in maintaining economic stability and independence.