Carolus (3rd type with notched shield) 1588-1593 front Carolus (3rd type with notched shield) 1588-1593 back
Carolus (3rd type with notched shield) 1588-1593 photo
© CGB

Carolus 3rd type with notched shield

 
Billon 1.45 g 20 mm
Description
Issuer
Free imperial city of Besançon (French States)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1588-1593
Value
1 Carolus = 2 Kreuzers (1⁄30)
Currency
Thaler (1537-1673)
Composition
Billon
Weight
1.45 g
Diameter
20 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-04
References
Numista
N#153290
Rarity index
95%

Reverse

Arms of Besançon in a notched shield sided by the year.

Script: Latin

Lettering: + MONETA : CIVITA : BISVNTINA

Translation: Coinage of the city of Besançon.

Interesting fact

The Carolus coin from the Free Imperial City of Besançon is interesting because it was minted during a time of great turmoil in Europe, particularly in France. The coin was minted during the Wars of Religion, which lasted from 1562 to 1598, and was a period of great conflict between Catholics and Protestants. Despite this, the coin still features the image of Charles IX, the King of France, indicating that the city of Besançon remained loyal to the French crown during this time of upheaval.