12 Soldi - Ludovico II ND (1475-1504) front 12 Soldi - Ludovico II ND (1475-1504) back
12 Soldi - Ludovico II ND (1475-1504) photo
© Nomos AG

12 Soldi - Ludovico II ND

 
Silver 7.98 g 28 mm
Description
Issuer
Marquisate of Saluzzo (Italian States)
Marquess
Ludovico II (1475-1504)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1475-1504
Value
12 Soldi
Currency
Testone
Composition
Silver
Weight
7.98 g
Diameter
28 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#131059
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Upper part of a crowned eagle with spread wings above a shield with the coat of arms of Saluzzo.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
SANCTVS · CONSTANTIVS
·L· ·M

Comment

This coin has been described as a cornuto (a local version of the Testone) that was struck using an obverse die with a full legend, very rarely used for cornutos, but without the mintmaster's initials. The reverse die is similar to the ones used for the grossi. Alternatively, this coin may be a grosso of 12 or 15 soldi, similar to the grossi struck in Milan, which may explain the slightly lower weight for a cornuto.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the 12 Soldi coin from the Marquisate of Saluzzo is that it features a unique design element - a small shield with the letter "L" (for Ludovico II) placed above the coat of arms on the obverse side. This subtle detail sets it apart from other coins of the time and adds to its historical significance.