Maravedí

Brief Description

The coin appears to be a hammered copper or billon coin, irregular in shape due to ancient manufacturing techniques. The visible remnants of design suggest a coat of arms or a stylized monarchical symbol, common for Spanish coinage of this period. Its heavily worn and corroded state makes precise identification challenging.

Historical Significance

The Maravedí was a long-standing monetary unit in various Iberian kingdoms, particularly Castile. Initially a gold coin, it evolved into a silver coin and by the late medieval and early modern period, it functioned primarily as a copper or billon unit of account and coinage. These coins were fundamental to local economies in Spain during a period of significant expansion and trade, including the Age of Exploration. Their widespread use reflects the economic activity and the gradual shift in monetary standards of the time.

Estimated Value

Due to its extremely worn and damaged condition, and without clearer identifying marks or provenance, its numismatic value is likely low, perhaps "Less than $10" as a raw, identifiable artifact. If it could be definitively linked to a specific rare ruler or mint, the value could increase, but its current state makes that improbable.

Care Instructions

Given its current state, further cleaning is not recommended, as it could cause more damage. Store in a cool, dry place. Handle by the edges to avoid transferring oils from hands. Place in a non-PVC holder (e.g., Mylar flip or archival-grade coin slab) to prevent further environmental degradation and physical damage. This coin is more of a historical artifact than a high-grade collectible.

Created At: 2025-09-06T23:17:43.802086