Scute

n.	1.	A small shield.
	2.	An old French gold coin of the value of 3s. 4d. sterling, or about 80 cents.
	3.	(Zool.) A bony scale of a reptile or fish; a large horny scale on the leg of a bird, or on the belly of a snake.

Noun

1.

scute - large bony or horny plate as on an armadillo or turtle

protective covering