former gold coin crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below, you'll find comprehensive answers and detailed explanations for the crossword clue "former gold coin crossword clue," categorized by word length to help you quickly solve your puzzle.
Solutions for "former gold coin crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
LOUIS: A historic French gold coin, specifically the Louis d'Or, first minted in the 17th century.
DUCAT: A European gold coin widely used for trade, especially during the medieval and Renaissance periods.
6 Letters
GUINEA: A historic British gold coin, originally worth one pound sterling and later 21 shillings, first issued in 1663.
FLORIN: A historical gold coin first minted in Florence, Italy, in 1252, and later imitated across Europe.
7 Letters
DUBLOON: A large Spanish gold coin minted from the 16th to the 19th centuries, famously associated with piracy and treasure.
More About "former gold coin crossword clue"
The term "former gold coin" in a crossword clue opens up a fascinating world of historical numismatics. These clues often require knowledge of defunct currencies from various empires and kingdoms, reflecting their economic power and cultural influence throughout history. From the Roman Empire to the British Commonwealth, many nations minted their own distinctive gold coins that are now relics of the past.
Solving these clues involves more than just knowing a list of names; it's about understanding the historical context. For example, a "Louis" refers to the French Louis d'Or, a staple of European trade for centuries, while a "Guinea" speaks to Britain's colonial past and its trade with the Gold Coast. The "Dubloon" conjures images of Spanish galleons and New World riches. Crossword constructors love these terms for their brevity, distinctiveness, and the historical flavor they add to a puzzle.
When you encounter such a clue, consider the letter count first, then try to recall names of historical coins that fit. Broader knowledge of world history, particularly European and imperial eras, can give you a significant advantage in identifying these once-valuable pieces of currency.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count: Always check the number of letters required. This is your primary filter for potential answers.
- Think Historically and Geographically: Many "former" items, especially coins, are tied to specific historical periods or countries. If other clues hint at a region (e.g., 'French', 'Spanish', 'British'), focus your thoughts accordingly.
- Cross-Reference: Use intersecting words to confirm your answer. Even if you're unsure about "DUBLOON", if the 'D' and 'O' fit perfectly with other solved clues, it's likely correct.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Regularly reading up on history, geography, and general knowledge can significantly boost your crossword-solving abilities, especially for clues involving specific historical terms like old coins.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a coin "former" in crossword terms?
In crosswords, a 'former' coin refers to currency that is no longer in active circulation or has been replaced by a new system. This often includes historical coins from various countries, like the Roman denarius, French franc (before the Euro), or specific gold coins like the guinea or florin. The term indicates you're looking for a name from monetary history, not current tender.
Are gold coins common crossword answers?
Yes, historical gold coins are quite common in crosswords, especially in more challenging puzzles. Their distinct names and rich history make them good candidates for clues that test general knowledge. Clues might refer to their origin (e.g., 'old Spanish coin'), their value, or simply their name when 'former gold coin' is specified. Familiarity with terms like ducat, louis, guinea, and doubloon can be very helpful.
How can I identify the specific former gold coin needed?
Beyond the general clue 'former gold coin', pay attention to the number of letters required and any other intersecting clues. If the clue mentions a country (e.g., 'French former gold coin'), that's a strong hint. Sometimes the clue might hint at a characteristic, like 'heavy former gold coin'. If the letter count is short, consider coins like LOUIS or DUCAT. For longer words, think of GUINEA or DUBLOON. Context is key!