zecchino
Sequin (a corruption of the original Italian term), also known as a Papal Ducat
At a Glance
- Active period: 1284-1797
A smaller Italian gold coin minted in the Republic of Venice beginning in the 13th century, one of many currencies pillaged and traded by pirates. The pronunciation of Zecchino was corrupted to become "sequin." Women of the era would adorn headdresses with dangling zucchinos, giving meaning to the modern term, sequins. Design of the zecchino remained unchanged throughout its 500 year history, making it the longest produced coin in history. Production ceased when Nepoleon captured Venice in 1797.