© Noble Numismatics Pty Ltd
© Noble Numismatics Pty Ltd
1 Parpagliola - Ottavio and Alexander Piacenza
| Billon (.250 silver) | 2.5 g | 20 mm |
| Issuer | Duchy of Parma and Piacenza (Italian States) |
|---|---|
| Duke | Ottavio Farnese (1547-1586) Alexander Farnese (1586-1592) Ranuccio I Farnese (1592-1622) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1565-1609 |
| Value | 1 Parpagliola (⅛) |
| Currency | Lira (?-1802) |
| Composition | Billon (.250 silver) |
| Weight | 2.5 g |
| Diameter | 20 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#65001 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 90% |
Reverse
Seated allegorical figure of the city, in guise of Minerva, to left, resting left arm on shield, holding flower in right hand, date in exergue.
Script: Latin
Lettering: FEL SVB HIS PLAC
Comment
This unusual type was frozen or “immobilized” and continued to be struck long after the deaths of the two dukes shown on the coin.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the 1 Parpagliola coin from the Duchy of Parma and Piacenza is that it was made of Billon, which is an alloy of silver and other metals, typically copper or zinc. The use of Billon in coinage was common in Europe during the 16th century, as it allowed for the production of coins with a lower silver content, making them more affordable to mint and circulate. The 1 Parpagliola coin, specifically, had a silver content of .250, which is relatively low compared to other coins of the time. This fact highlights the economic and monetary policies of the Duchy of Parma and Piacenza during the 16th century and provides insight into the financial systems and practices of that era.
