Paolo Penko

Goldsmith for a Day Experience

Craft your own florin coin pendant in pure silver or pure gold under the direction of Paolo Penko’s goldsmiths.

The “Goldsmith for a Day” experience will give you the opportunity to create your own souvenir pendant of a Fiorino coin (Florence’s ancient currency first coined in 1252) with the same tools and techniques as those used in the past. 

During this creative journey, you will be guided by Paolo Penko’s trained goldsmiths who will share their insightful knowledge of the goldsmithing craft and its history in Florence with you.  

The process begins with tempering and shaping precious metals until a round disc of the proper size is obtained.

Next, you will have the opportunity to “battere moneta” or “mint the coin” by using an authentic die and mallet to simultaneously impress the Florentine lily on one side of the coin, and an image of St. John the Baptist on the other. 

All required tools and materials will be made available for the client’s use.

The Fiorino may be made in either pure gold or pure silver.  Once minted, the coin will be mounted in a sterling silver frame so that it may be worn as a pendant and brought home as a souvenir.  In addition to the florin that they will have minted, the guests will receive a complementary “Orafo per un giorno” apron and a certificate of participation. 

Details

  • Duration: 60 minuts

  • Bookings of minimum 2 people, max 6 people 

  • Available to adults and children over 12 years of age. 

  • Children under 12 years of age may partake in the experience exclusively in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.

  • Cost for pure silver Florin pendant souvenir: $325 per person 

  • Cost for pure gold Florin pendant souvenir: $1225 per person

  • Safety waivers must be signed in advance of the experience.

Notes:

  • A subsequent private, guided visit of Paolo Penko’s flagship workshop may be scheduled. Visits last 25 minutes  and cover a demonstration of various techniques used in the production of a piece of Florentine jewelry. A presentation of the Medicean symbols of power (crown, scepter, and the golden fleece of Cosimo I) reproduced by Paolo Penko follows.

  • Additional cost: $35 per person