Medieval coins were used in Europe from the 5th to the 15th century, serving as a primary medium of exchange. These coins were often made of precious metals like silver and gold, and their designs typically featured images of rulers, saints, or symbols representing different regions. The value of a coin was determined by its metal content and weight. Different regions produced their own unique coins, such as the penny in England and the florin in Italy. The introduction of coinage helped facilitate trade and commerce, leading to the growth of towns and markets during the Middle Ages.