© Numismatica Ranieri
© Numismatica Ranieri
1 Piccolo - Bertrand long cross ND
| Billon (.121 silver) | 0.4 g | - |
| Issuer | Patriarchate of Aquileia (Italian States) |
|---|---|
| Patriarch | Bertram of Saint Genesius (Pagano della Torre) (1334-1350) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1334-1350 |
| Value | 1 Piccolo (1⁄14) |
| Currency | Soldo |
| Composition | Billon (.121 silver) |
| Weight | 0.4 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#412887 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Long cross dividing legend and inner beaded circle.
Script: Latin (uncial)
Lettering: ✠ B · PATRIARChA
Lettering (regular font): ✠ B · PATRIARChA
Translation: Patriarch Bertrand
Comment
According to Bernardi (p.24), the standard fineness for the mid-14th century piccolo was 0.121 at a weight of 0.3 grams, but the existence of heavier examples could also mean the purity was lower.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it was minted during the reign of Bertrand de Saint-Geniès, who was the Patriarch of Aquileia from 1334 to 1350. During his reign, the Patriarchate of Aquileia was a powerful and influential state in the region, and the coinage minted during this time reflects the wealth and power of the Patriarchate. The use of Billon, a silver-copper alloy, was a common practice during this time period, as it allowed for the creation of coins that were both durable and had a lower cost of production compared to pure silver coins. Additionally, the long cross design on the coin was a common feature of coins minted during this time period, and it served as a symbol of the Christian faith, which was an important aspect of the Patriarchate of Aquileia.
