© Bertolami Fine Arts
© Bertolami Fine Arts
5 Soldi - Ranuccio II Piacenza ND
| Billon (.167 silver) | 2.5 g | 20 mm |
| Issuer | Duchy of Parma and Piacenza (Italian States) |
|---|---|
| Duke | Ranuccio II Farnese (1646-1694) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1646-1694 |
| Value | 5 Soldi (¼) |
| Currency | Lira (?-1802) |
| Composition | Billon (.167 silver) |
| Weight | 2.5 g |
| Diameter | 20 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#65028 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 94% |
Reverse
Full-length facing figure of Saint Justina, holding crozier.
Script: Latin
Lettering: · S · IVSTINA · PLA · PROTE ·
Translation: Saint Justina, protector of Piacenza
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the 5 Soldi - Ranuccio II (Piacenza) ND (1646-1694) coin from the Duchy of Parma and Piacenza (Italian States) is that it was made of Billon, which is an alloy of silver and other metals, typically copper. The use of Billon in coinage was common in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries, as it allowed for the production of coins with a silver content that was lower than the face value of the coin, while still maintaining the appearance and durability of a silver coin. The Billon used in this coin contains 16.7% silver, which is a relatively low percentage compared to other coins of the time. Despite this, the coin still holds significant historical and numismatic value, and is a fascinating example of the diverse range of coinage produced during this period in European history.
