© Auktionen Münzhandlung Sonntag
© Auktionen Münzhandlung Sonntag
Teston
| Silver | 9.0 g | 28 mm |
| Issuer | City of Metz (French States) |
|---|---|
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1590-1611 |
| Value | 1 Teston = ⅓ Thaler |
| Currency | Thaler |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 9.0 g |
| Diameter | 28 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#365055 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Full-length standing figure of St. Stephen in elongated oval that divides date below.
Script: Latin
Lettering: S. STEPHA PROTHOM
Unabridged legend: Santus STephanus Prothomartyr
Translation: Saint Stephen, first martyr
Comment
Variants:The representation of the date differs slightly by year:
Four digit date divided by base of oval (main photos): 1590, 1592, 1593, 1597, 1611 (reverse legend starts at left)
Two digit date in exergue (15)98, (15)99:
© Monnaies d'Antan
Four digit date in exergue 1600:
© Monnaies d'Antan
Interesting fact
The Teston coin was used as a form of currency in the French States during the 16th century, and it was made of silver. The coin weighed 9.0 grams and had a diameter of 25-30 millimeters. Despite its small size, the Teston coin was an important part of the local economy in Metz and surrounding areas. It was used to purchase everyday goods and services, and it was also used as a form of payment for debts and taxes. The coin's design featured an image of a crowned shield with the letters "SIT" (an abbreviation for "Sigillum Iter") on one side, and the letters "CIVITAS METENSIS" (meaning "City of Metz") on the other side. The Teston coin was minted from 1590 to 1611, and it remains a popular collector's item among numismatists today.
