Teston - Francis II (Crucible) ND (1497-1510) front Teston - Francis II (Crucible) ND (1497-1510) back
Teston - Francis II (Crucible) ND (1497-1510) photo
© Numismatica Ars Classica NAC AG

Teston - Francis II Crucible ND

 
Silver 9.8 g 27 mm
Description
Issuer
Duchy of Mantua (Italian States)
Marquess
Francis II (1484-1519)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1497-1510
Value
1 Testone (¼)
Currency
Scudo
Composition
Silver
Weight
9.8 g
Diameter
27 mm
Shape
Round
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#319888
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Crucible containing a bundle of rods, surrounded by flames

Script: Latin

Lettering: (pyx) D · PROBASTI · ME · COGNOV · ME

Translation: O Lord, thou has searched me and known me

Comment

The reverse legend is from Psalm 139.

Numismatica Ars dates this type to the middle of Francis' reign, 1497-1510

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Teston - Francis II (Crucible) ND (1497-1510) coin from Duchy of Mantua (Italian States) is that it features a unique design element - a small shield with the letter "F" in the center, which represents the initial of the ruler, Francis II Gonzaga. This coin was minted during his reign, and the inclusion of his initial on the coin was a way to signify his authority and connection to the duchy.