republic-of-florence-italy-1252-onwards-first-minted-item
DenominationFlorin (Fiorino d'oro)
Country / EmpireRepublic of Florence (Italy)
MintageMillions over centuries (specific annual figures not available)
Obverse DesignSt. John the Baptist standing, holding a staff with a cross. Inscription: S. IOHANNES B.
Reverse DesignFlorentine lily (fleur-de-lis). Inscription: FLORENTIA. (The provided image shows this side.)
Historical Context
The Florentine Florin, first struck in 1252, was the first major gold coin issued in Western Europe since the fall of the Roman Empire. Its consistent weight and high purity (nearly 24 carat gold) made it the standard international trade currency for centuries, widely imitated across Europe.
