Carolus (6th type with decorated shield) 1622-1664 front Carolus (6th type with decorated shield) 1622-1664 back
Carolus (6th type with decorated shield) 1622-1664 photo
© pimmy (CC BY-NC-SA)

Carolus 6th type with decorated shield

 
Silver 1.6 g 19 mm
Description
Issuer
Free imperial city of Besançon (French States)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1622-1664
Value
1 Carolus = 2 Kreuzers (1⁄30)
Currency
Thaler (1537-1673)
Composition
Silver
Weight
1.6 g
Diameter
19 mm
Shape
Round
Orientation
Medal alignment ↑↑
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-04
References
Numista
N#33754
Rarity index
79%

Reverse

Shield of Besançon surrounded by decorations.

Script: Latin

Lettering: + MONE : CIVI : BISVNTINÆ

Translation: Coinage of the city of Besançon.

Interesting fact

The Carolus coin from the Free Imperial City of Besançon (French States) is interesting because it was minted during a time of great turmoil in Europe, particularly during the Thirty Years' War (1618-1648). Despite the conflict, the coin still features a decorated shield on the reverse side, indicating the importance of heraldry and symbolism during that era. Additionally, the fact that it was made of silver and weighs only 1.6 grams suggests that it was a widely used coin for everyday transactions, highlighting the importance of commerce and trade during that time period.