© Numismatica Varesi
© Numismatica Varesi
Large Grosso ND
| Silver | 2.0 g | 21 mm |
| Issuer | Asti (Italian States) |
|---|---|
| Period | Free Republic (1140-1314) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1290-1325 |
| Value | 1 Grosso (1⁄20) |
| Currency | Lira (1095-1553) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 2.0 g |
| Diameter | 21 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#416719 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Word REX arranged in triangle within inner reeded circle.
Script: Latin (uncial)
Lettering:
✿ CVNRADVS ✿ II
REX
Lettering (regular font):
✿ CVNRADVS ✿ II
REX
Translation: Conrad II, King
Comment
Asti struck immobilized types in the name of Conrad II through their entire 200 year coinage.
According to Day et al. (MEC 12, p. 117-120), with the introduction of the gros tournois (tornese) in the 1290s, this larger version of the older style grosso (which they call a grosso “maggiore”, but others call a doppio grosso) would have been valued at half the tornese, and probably on a par with other Piedmontese grossi of 10 denari.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Large Grosso ND (1290-1325) from Asti (Italian States) is that it was minted during a time of significant political and economic change in Italy. The coin was issued during the reign of King Louis IV of Germany, who was also known as Louis the Bavarian. Louis IV was a member of the Wittelsbach dynasty and ruled over a vast territory that included much of modern-day Germany, Italy, and parts of France. At the time, Italy was not a unified country but was instead divided into several smaller states, including the city-state of Asti. The Large Grosso ND (1290-1325) was one of the coins that were used in Asti during this period, and it was made of silver, which was a valuable and widely used metal at the time. The coin's design features an image of the king on one side and a cross on the other, which was a common design element for coins during this period. The Large Grosso ND (1290-1325) was an important part of the local economy in Asti and was used for everyday transactions, such as buying goods and services. Overall, the Large Grosso ND (1290-1325) from Asti (Italian States) is an interesting historical artifact that provides insight into the political, economic, and cultural context of medieval Italy.
