Catalog
| Issuer | Genoa, Republic of (1139-1797) |
|---|---|
| Year | 1270-1305 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Genovino = 20 Soldi = 1 Lira |
| Currency | Genovino (1139-1528) |
| Composition | Gold (.999) |
| Weight | 3.53 g |
| Diameter | 20 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | MIR#5, MEC XII#236, MEC XII#237, Fr#351 |
| Obverse description | Gateway within inner reeded circle. Mint master`s symbol at end of legend. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin (uncial) |
| Obverse lettering |
✠ ⸰ I ⸰ A ⸰ N ⸰V ⸰ A ✿ (Translation: Genoa) |
| Reverse description | Cross pattée within inner reeded circle. |
| Reverse script | Latin (uncial) |
| Reverse lettering |
✠ CVNRADVS ⸰ REX (Translation: Conrad, King) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (1270-1289) - 3 small rings in a triangular shape - ND (1270-1289) - 5-pointed star - ND (1270-1289) - 6-pointed star - ND (1270-1289) - Clover - ND (1270-1289) - Letter `P` (at beginning or end of legend) - ND (1270-1289) - Rosette - ND (1270-1289) - Small vase (with or without plant) - ND (1270-1289) - Sun (very rare) - ND (1270-1289) - without master`s symbol - ND (1300-1305) - Shell - |
| Numisquare ID | 7671451810 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 1 Genovino Ist type, struck by the Republic of Genoa between 1270 and 1305, signifies a crucial period in medieval European monetary history. Genoa, a dominant maritime power, wielded a vast trade network across the Mediterranean. The Genovino, alongside the Florentine Florin, served as a cornerstone of international commerce, reflecting Genoa's economic might. Its introduction marked a pivotal return to gold coinage in Western Europe, facilitating complex financial transactions.
Artistry: The Genovino's design, typical of late medieval numismatic iconography, lacks an attributed engraver. The obverse features the Castello di Genova, a symbolic representation of the Republic's strength, encircled by "IANUA". The reverse depicts Saint John the Baptist, Genoa's patron saint, standing facing, holding a staff, with "S. IOHANNES B". This stylistic choice emphasizes religious devotion and civic identity through clear, symbolic imagery characteristic of early Gothic numismatic art.
Technical/Grading: Struck in nearly pure gold (.999 fine) at 3.53 grams and 20 mm, the Genovino demonstrates remarkable metallic purity for its era. Key high-points for grading include the castle's battlements and central tower on the obverse, and St. John's facial features, hands, and drapery folds on the reverse. Due to medieval minting, strike variations, like off-centering or legend weakness, are common. Well-struck examples with full detail are highly valued.