© Bertolami Fine Arts
© Bertolami Fine Arts
Small Grosso ND
| Silver | 1.4 g | 20 mm |
| Issuer | Genoa › Republic of Genoa (1139-1797) |
|---|---|
| Ruling authority | Commune (1139-1339) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1236-1289 |
| Value | Small grosso (Grosso da 4 denari) (1⁄40) |
| Currency | Genovino (1139-1528) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 1.4 g |
| Diameter | 20 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#417263 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Cross pattée within cabled circle.
Script: Latin (uncial)
Lettering: CVNRAD1 • REX •
Lettering (regular font): CVNRAD1 • REX •
Translation: Conrad King
Edge
Plain
Comment
Day et al. (MEC 12) suggest the size and composition of this type may have been designed to match the Byzantine milaresion, a key Genoes trade partner. Their analysis also says it must have been a coin of 6 Genoese denari (not 4 as was assumed previously).
Subtypes suggested by the MEC 12 classification system:
Class E - No pellet below gate (MEC 12# 220, main photos)
Class H - Pellet below gate (MEC 12# 228)
© Leu Numismatik
Class N - No pellet below gate, punctuation by triple dots reverse after REX (MEC 12# 240)
© Numismatica Ars
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the Small Grosso coin from Genoa is that it was used as a form of currency during the medieval period, specifically during the 13th to 14th centuries. It was made of silver and weighed 1.4 grams, which was a significant amount for a coin at that time. Despite its small size, the coin played an important role in facilitating trade and commerce in the region.
