In the world of numismatics, the term fleece It sparks curiosity and, for many, a certain amount of confusion. This material, used for centuries in coinage, has a history closely tied to economics, the scarcity of precious metals, and the needs of states. In this article, we will explore what billon is, its origin, its characteristics, and some emblematic examples of coins minted with this material.
What is fleece?
Fleece is a silver and copper alloy in different proportions. Historically, the amount of silver in the billon could vary, from compositions rich in silver to alloys with only a small percentage of the precious metal.
The reason for its use was primarily economicThis allowed the state to mint more coins by reducing the silver content without eliminating it entirely. This facilitated trade and debt repayment, but could also generate distrust if the proportion of silver decreased too much.
History and uses of fleece
Billon coinage was widely used in Europe from the Middle Ages onward. In Spain, for example, billon coins were minted from the reign of the Catholic Monarchs until well into the 19th century. In many cases, their use was a response to economic crises, wars, or the need to finance public spending.
In America, the Spanish colonies also used billon in small denominations intended for everyday trade, especially in areas where silver had to be reserved for exports and international payments.
Image from: Numismatic Sheet
Some coins made of fleece
Spanish quarters and eighths
- Coined during the 17th and 18th centuries.
- Small coins for everyday transactions.
Coins of Ferdinand VII (1808-1833)
- Pieces of 1, 2 and 4 maravedís minted in billon.
- Composition with low silver content and predominance of copper.
Colonial coins in America
Example: the Mexican “tlaco”, worth ¼ of a real, with a small amount of silver.
Billon coins from the 19th century in Spain
During the reign of Isabella II, denominations in this material were still being issued, such as the ½ real.
Numismatic importance
Today, billon coins are prized by collectors both for their historical value and for the stories they tell about times of crisis, trade, and monetary decisions. Their wear, tone, and patina can be equally appealing to numismatists.
Billon coinage is a clear example of how economics and politics directly influence the minting of coins. Understanding this material and its uses allows us to better appreciate the pieces that come into our hands and the historical context in which they were created.
Note: This website participates in the eBay Affiliate Program. Purchases made through ad links may generate a commission for us, which helps us maintain and improve our content. Thank you for your support!
