© Numismatica Ranieri
© Numismatica Ranieri
Denier "Provisino" - Roman Senate ND
| Billon | 0.41 g | 13 mm |
| Issuer | Papal States |
|---|---|
| Period | Roman Senate (1184-1439) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1300-1400 |
| Value | 1 Denier (1 Picciolo) (1⁄24) |
| Currency | Groschen (1188-1534) |
| Composition | Billon |
| Weight | 0.41 g |
| Diameter | 13 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-09 |
| Numista | N#347744 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Cross with star in first quarter, surrounded by legend.
Script: Latin
Lettering: ROMA CAPVD M
Unabridged legend: Roma Caput Mundi
Translation: Rome, head of the world.
Comment
The design of the "provisino" was based on the type minted in Provins for the Counts of Champagne (NE France), which was known as denier provinois (see link below). The wool comb on the reverse of this denier showed a wool comb, a reference to one of the main industries in Provins. It was circulating widely in Central Italy by the mid-12th century and the Roman mint simply copied it because it was an established type.Production lasted until XIV Century
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Denier "Provisino" coin is that it was issued during a time of economic struggle for the Papal States. The coin was introduced as a replacement for the previously used Grosso, and it was intended to help stabilize the economy by reducing the cost of production and increasing the availability of coinage. Despite its introduction during a challenging period, the Denier "Provisino" coin remained in circulation for over a century, indicating its effectiveness in supporting the local economy.
