History of Medieval and Modern Coins

The course aims to provide a framework of the history of medieval and modern coinage by directing students to bibliographical, lexical, written and numismatic sources and research methods. A suitable knowledge of the material will be made possible through practical experience with a collection of ancient, medieval and modern coins combined with the materials examined in the course.

The course presents students with materials and methods for the study of medieval and modern coinage: given the nature of coins, which circulate across human culture, one observes the wide picture of Italy and the Mediterranean which can be compared with other parts of Europe. The study of coins as metal documents makes it possible to capture historical aspects relevant to the fields of political economy, political culture, law, iconography, technology and even ritual and devotion. The written sources are numerous (merchant, literary texts, money changer books, mint ordinances, diaries, etc.); numismatic sources can also be treasures or coins from excavation or collection. With practical examples related to diverse regions and periods, students will be able to verify in practice the methodologies and research possibilities in the field, always relating back to written and numismatic sources. The course is set within a framework of continuous participation and dialogue, as well as with materials entrusted to students for personal exploration to be exhibited in the classroom. There will be seminary activities based on both the collections of coins and specific written sources, which are to be examined from time to time. At the end of the course, students will be able to place the main monetary phenomena of the long period under consideration within a contextual framework, and to navigate through the bibliographical and critical analysis of the most recent research.
Students opting not to attend the lessons will be able to participate in practical exercises with coins by booking with the instructor; additionally, they can arrange suggested readings to deepen their knowledge by contacting the instructor by email or during office hours.