Florentine Florin
Italy
1252–1533
Reference data compiled from public catalogs
Estimated Melt Value
$491.26
Based on Gold spot price ($4,795.98/oz) · 90.0% purity · 3.54g
Updated 6:41 PM
Collector premium not included
Specifications
| Country | Italy |
| Years Minted | 1252–1533 |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 3.54 g |
| Diameter | 21 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Edge | Plain |
Design
Obverse
The obverse features the Florentine lily (fleur-de-lis).
Reverse
The reverse depicts St. John the Baptist.
History & Notable Facts
The Florentine Florin was the first gold coin in Europe to achieve widespread circulation, kickstarting international trade from 1252 onward.
Weighing about 3.5 grams of pure gold, it featured the city's fleur-de-lis on one side and a figure of John the Baptist on the other, symbols that made it instantly recognizable. Its introduction by the Florentine Republic helped stabilize currencies across the continent, though exact export figures remain murky due to lost records.
Minted until 1533, the Florin saw variations in design as Florence's power waxed and waned, but its core remained that reliable gold standard. Some years, dies wore out quickly from high demand, leading to subtle differences that collectors debate endlessly.
I've seen fakes that fooled even experts, which is why I always check the edge for that telltale milling. As for myths about it bringing good luck, let's just say I've handled thousands without a single fortune.
Buy on eBay
AI Analysis & Price Prediction
The Florentine Florin has shown consistent appreciation over the past decade. Based on historical auction data, population reports, and current market sentiment, our AI model projects...
Get AI-powered analysis for this coin
Unlock with Pro — $9.99/mo