Genoese lira

The Genoese lira (Italian: Lira genovese) was the currency of the Republic of Genoa until 1797.

Genoese silver lira of 1794

History

The mint in the Republic of Genoa began its production around 1138.[1]

In 1252, the Genoese Republic began the issue of a gold coin, known as Genovino, containing approx. 3.5 grams of gold. At this time, the Genoese lira was equal to 70 grams of silver or 7 grams of gold. From the middle of the 13th century to the middle of the 14th century the cost of the Genoese lira fell by 5%, while in the early of the 15th century, the Genoese lira has lost over 30% of its value. However, coins from other Italian regions devalued even more and therefore, by the end of the 15th century the Genoese lira was the most valuable Italian coin, containing about 13 grams of pure silver.[2] When the period of the Republic ended, the one lira coin weighed 4.16 g at 889/1000 equal to 3.69824 g of silver or 0.239 g of gold.[3]

The Genoese lira ceased its existence with the end of the Republic in 1797, however, the Mint of Genoa remained in operation by issuing coins until 1860.[3]

References

1. Desimoni, Cornelio. Tavole Descrittive Delle Monete Della Zecca Di Genova Dal 1139-1814 (in Italian). Nabu Press.
2. M. Cipolla, Carlo. Economic History of World Population. Trophy Pr; 7 edition.
3. M. Cipolla, Carlo. Le avventure della lira (in Italian). Il Mulino.