Ducado

Ducado refers to a historical silver coin that was widely used in various European countries, particularly in Italy, Spain, and Portugal, during the medieval and early modern periods. The name "ducado" is derived from the ducat, a gold coin that originated in the Kingdom of Sicily in the 12th century and later became a prominent currency throughout Europe. While the ducat was gold, the ducado was its silver counterpart, often minted with similar designs and denominations.

The exact specifications and value of a ducado varied significantly over time and by region. However, it generally represented a substantial unit of currency. These coins were crucial for trade and commerce within and between these kingdoms, facilitating economic activity. The ducado often featured portraits of rulers, coats of arms, or religious imagery, reflecting the political and cultural context of its origin. Its widespread circulation contributed to the standardization of coinage and the development of financial systems. The ducado gradually faded from use with the rise of national currencies and the eventual adoption of decimal systems.