Holy Roman Empire, County Palatine of the Rhine, Rupert I, Goldgulden

Around the middle of the 13th century, the northern Italian cites began to issue gold coins. From there, the new trade coins began to spread across the Alps. Soon, the Electors of the Rhine wanted their own gold coin. After all, they maintained a vivid far trade on the river. First, however, they had to get the necessary privilege. And that, only the emperor could grant. The Elector of the Palatine of the Rhine, Rupert I(1353-1390), got the desired concession in 1354. He immediately started to issue gold coins modeled after the florens from Florence. By copying their design, he profited from the good reputation of the Florentine money. This gulden from Heidelberg thus bears a lily flower, the coat of arms of Florence, and John the Baptist, Florence's city saint.