1/2 Duplone

Historical Context: The 1796 Solothurn 1/2 Duplone emerges from a pivotal moment in Swiss history, just two years prior to the French invasion and collapse of the Old Swiss Confederacy. Solothurn, an independent oligarchic republic, exercised its sovereign right to mint coinage. This gold issue represents the traditional economic autonomy of the city-state, a system soon dismantled by revolutionary fervor, serving as a tangible artifact of the Ancien Régime before the Helvetic Republic.

Artistry: The design of the Solothurn 1/2 Duplone adheres to conservative numismatic traditions of Swiss cantonal coinage from the late 18th century. While an engraver is often unrecorded, the style reflects late Baroque influence transitioning towards early Neoclassicism. The obverse commonly features the Solothurn coat of arms, a red and white shield, symbolizing city sovereignty. The reverse usually displays the denomination, date, and sometimes an allegorical figure or inscription, executed with clear, conventional detailing.

Technical/Grading: Struck in .900 fine gold, weighing 3.82 grams and measuring 21 millimeters, the 1/2 Duplone is a relatively small gold denomination. Key high-points for assessing strike quality and wear include fine details of the shield on the obverse, particularly any hatching or small elements within the arms, and the serifs and spacing of the lettering. Minor flan irregularities or slight off-centering are not uncommon. A strong strike will exhibit full detail on the crown (if present) and crisp, well-defined legends.