Aragonese Carlino

One of the most intriguing aspects of the Aragonese Carlino is its frequent use of the four vertical bars of Aragon on the reverse, a design that directly tied Neapolitan currency to Spanish influence during a period of political flux.

Struck in silver at the Naples mint between 1442 and 1503, these coins typically featured the ruling monarch's name on the obverse, like Alfonso V, and served as a standard denomination worth about four grani. They circulated widely in daily trade, reflecting the economic ties between Naples and the Aragonese crown. Weights varied from 2 to 4 grams, depending on the die and metal quality available at the time.

We don't know the exact mintage numbers; those records likely burned in some forgotten archive fire centuries ago. As for myths about their supposed rarity, I've handled enough of these over thirty years to know they're often overstated—plenty turned up in old hoards, much to the surprise of sellers expecting a fortune.