Teston - William I ND (1550-1587) front Teston - William I ND (1550-1587) back
Teston - William I ND (1550-1587) photo
© Numismatica Ars Classica NAC AG

Teston - William I ND

 
Silver 8.87 g -
Description
Issuer
Duchy of Mantua (Italian States)
Duke
William I (1550-1587)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1550-1587
Value
1 Testone (¼)
Currency
Scudo
Composition
Silver
Weight
8.87 g
Shape
Round
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#319868
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Standing figure of Saint Barbara in left profile, holding palm in right hand and a small tower in left

Script: Latin

Lettering:
✶SANCTA✶ BARBARA
(exergue): ✶MAN✶

Translation: Saint Barbara, Mantova

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Teston coin is that it was minted during the reign of William I, who was the Duke of Mantua from 1550 to 1587. During his rule, he promoted the arts and culture, and the coin's design reflects this, featuring a detailed image of the Duke on one side and the Mantuan coat of arms on the other. Additionally, the coin was made of silver, which was a valuable and durable material at the time, and it weighed 8.87 grams, making it a substantial coin.