Neapolitan Grano
Italy
1734–1860
Reference data compiled from public catalogs
Estimated Melt Value
$0.02
Based on Copper spot price ($6.07/oz) · 95.0% purity · 1.2g
Updated 3:56 PM
Collector premium not included
Specifications
| Country | Italy |
| Years Minted | 1734–1860 |
| Composition | Copper |
| Weight | 1.2 g |
| Diameter | 18 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Edge | Plain |
Design
Obverse
Features the portrait of the ruling monarch, such as a Bourbon king.
Reverse
Displays the coat of arms of the Kingdom of Naples or the denomination.
History & Notable Facts
The Neapolitan Grano, a diminutive copper coin, was first struck in 1734 to fill the gap in small change for everyday transactions in the Kingdom of Naples.
This made it indispensable for buying bread or paying tolls, especially as inflation rose under rulers like Charles III. Weighing under 2 grams, these coins were produced in Naples and sometimes Palermo, using basic copper alloys that often led to wear after just a few years in circulation. Mintage figures vary by year, but records from the mid-1700s suggest millions were needed to keep pace with demand.
Not every Grano survived; many ended up in the sea, dropped by fishermen or lost in ports. Designs featured simple portraits of the monarch, like Ferdinand IV, with dates that pinpointed turbulent eras. While myths abound about hidden treasures, most Granos were just workaday currency.
Some say the coin's size invited sleight-of-hand tricks among merchants. They weren't wrong.
Buy on eBay
AI Analysis & Price Prediction
The Neapolitan Grano 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