dukat

A dukat is a gold coin that was first minted in the Republic of Venice in the 13th century. Its design featured Saint Mark on the obverse and Christ in a mandorla on the reverse. The name "dukat" is derived from the Latin word "ducatus," meaning "duchy."

The Venetian dukat quickly became a widely recognized and trusted currency across Europe and the Mediterranean. Its consistent weight and fineness made it ideal for international trade. Over centuries, many other European states and rulers adopted the ducat coinage, often creating their own versions with local imagery and inscriptions. Despite variations, the general appearance and high gold content remained a hallmark of the ducat.

The ducat's popularity waned with the rise of larger, more standardized national currencies and the decline of Venice as a major trading power. However, it continued to be minted in some regions well into the 20th century, often as commemorative or bullion coins. Today, the term "ducat" is sometimes used informally to refer to any gold coin of similar weight and purity, though its historical significance is tied to its Venetian origins and widespread medieval and Renaissance circulation.