Republic of Venice · 1380–1420 AD
Venetian Tornesello
Colonial small change — minted for Venice's Greek and Cretan territories
Unique piece
The Tornesello: Venice's Colonial Coin
The tornesello was a small billon (silver-copper alloy) coin minted specifically for Venice's overseas possessions — Crete, the Morea (Peloponnese), and the Ionian Islands. Named after the "tournois" coin it replaced, the tornesello circulated throughout Venice's colonial empire from the 14th to the 16th century.
This Coin
The obverse shows the winged lion of St. Mark — Venice's most famous symbol — holding an open Gospel book. The reverse bears a cross within a circle, with the Doge's name in the legend. These affordable little coins offer a tangible connection to Venice's maritime empire.
Numismatic Details
- Denomination
- Tornesello
- Civilization
- Republic of Venice
- Period
- 1380–1420 AD
- Mint
- Venice
- Material
- Billon
- Weight
- 0.8g
- Diameter
- 16mm
- Condition
- F+ (Fine Plus)
Obverse
Winged lion of St. Mark holding open book
Reverse
Cross in circle, legend with Doge name
What You'll Receive
Premium Display Case
Your coin arrives in an elegant display case, ready to admire or gift.
Certificate of Authenticity
Each coin includes a signed certificate guaranteeing its authenticity.
Secure & Insured Shipping
Tracked and insured delivery to protect your piece of history.
