Denaro (STG) ND (1250-1300) front Denaro (STG) ND (1250-1300) back
Denaro (STG) ND (1250-1300) photo
© Numismatica Ranieri

Denaro STG ND

 
Billon 0.50 g 16 mm
Description
Issuer
Commune of Novara (Novara, Italian States)
Period
Commune (1250-1448)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1250-1300
Value
Denaro (1⁄240)
Currency
Lira
Composition
Billon
Weight
0.50 g
Diameter
16 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered (scyphate)
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#426646
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Letters arranged in shape of cross within inner beaded circle.

Scripts: Greek, Latin

Lettering:
✠ IMRATOR
Ω
S ★ T
★ G ★

Unabridged legend:
Imperator
Ω
Sanctus
Gaudentius

Translation:
Emperor
Saint Gaudentius

Comment

Grierson and Travaini propose the second half of the 13th century for the Novara deanari and obol.

 

Variable weight between about 0.45 - 0.6 grams.  Other variations are known (five-pointed and six-pointed stars, letter N in Novara made more like an H; normally the N is retrograde).

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it was minted during a time of great economic and political change in Italy. The Commune of Novara was a significant city-state in the Italian States during the late medieval period, and the Denaro was a widely used coin throughout the region. The fact that it was made of Billon, a copper and silver alloy, suggests that it was a relatively valuable coin for its time. Additionally, the fact that it weighs 0.50g indicates that it was a small coin, making it easy to handle and transport. Overall, this coin provides a fascinating glimpse into the economic and political climate of medieval Italy.