We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Finance

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What is the Quattrino?

Mary McMahon
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 7,039
Share

The quattrino is a coin once used in Italy as currency. The coin dates to at least the 1300s and was used into the 1800s, when it was replaced by the Italian lira. Eventually, the lira was in turn exchanged for the euro, when Italy joined the European union. Numerous examples of quattrini can be seen on display in museums and collections of ancient currency. Coin collectors can usually find specimens for sale at varying prices.

The name of this coin is derived from the Latin quater denari, or “four pennies,” a reflection of the value of this coin. Exchange rates with Italian trading partners varied throughout history, but usually the quattrino was a small denomination of coin and the purchasing power fluctuated, but was generally low. While pennies went significantly further during the time this coin was used than they do today, they weren't usually worth a lot.

Numerous design variations were used for the quattrino. Many ancient coins featured the heads of various popes and included heraldic designs like rampant lions. Florence was a popular minting location for the quattrino, reflecting this city's historic role as a center of Italian commerce long before Italy was a unified nation. The coin was primarily used in the central region of Italy, in regions like Tuscany.

People may encounter references to the quattrino, along with other units of currency in ancient texts or books set in the era when these coins were used. Trade was highly active throughout Europe during much of the time this coin was in circulation, and as a result, merchants outside Italy often accepted payment in coins like the quattrino as a convenience to customers. These merchants could use the coins in trade with Italian partners or could choose to exchange them for other currency as needed.

Copper was commonly used for casting this coin. People interested in numismatics can find listings detailing the various designs in circulation and noting the period when they were available. These lists can be useful for verifying the origins of coins bought, traded, or found. Valuation by a coin professional is advised for large investments, to make sure people are purchasing a genuine specimen and to get an idea of the fair value of the coin. Prices for quattrini vary depending on the condition and vintage of the coin; older is not necessarily better, as some more recent coins were struck in fewer numbers and are therefore more rare.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Mary McMahon
By Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGeek researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a...

Learn more
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-is-the-quattrino.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.