Savoy Ducat

The Savoy Ducat's most enduring feature was its unvarying gold content—about 3.49 grams of pure metal per coin—which allowed it to circulate seamlessly across borders, even as wars raged around the Alps.

This made it a practical choice for merchants in the 17th and 18th centuries. Struck in Turin and other Savoyard mints, the coin typically bore the arms of the House of Savoy on one side and a cross or the ruler's initials on the other. Designs evolved slightly over the years, but the core remained the same.

We don't know the exact mintage for most years. Records from that era are spotty, often lost to fires or neglect. What we do have shows variations in die quality, with some strikes being crisp and others worn even when new.

As for myths, I've heard plenty about these coins bringing good luck in trade. But after thirty years, I'll say it's just gold doing what gold does.