1/2 Grosso - Cabrino Fondulo Lion

Historical Context: This 1/2 Grosso coin was issued by the City of Cremona during the tumultuous period of Cabrino Fondulo's lordship (1406-1419). Fondulo, a condottiero, seized control of Cremona, establishing a brief but significant independent regime amidst the power struggles of northern Italian city-states. His rule represented a localized assertion of sovereignty, evidenced by the prerogative of coinage, before Cremona was ultimately absorbed into the Duchy of Milan under Filippo Maria Visconti. The coin thus serves as a tangible artifact of Cremona's fleeting autonomy under a powerful local lord.

Artistry: The "Lion" designation suggests a prominent lion motif, likely depicted rampant or passant, symbolizing strength and civic pride, or perhaps a personal emblem of Fondulo himself. While specific engravers are unrecorded for such municipal issues, the design adheres to the late Gothic numismatic style prevalent in early 15th-century Italy. This style typically features stylized figures, often with a robust yet somewhat static quality, and clear, unadorned legends. The reverse would commonly feature a cross, a standard civic or religious emblem for Cremonese coinage of the period.

Technical/Grading: Struck in billon, a low-silver alloy, this 18mm coin typically exhibits characteristics common to early 15th-century minting. High-points prone to wear include the lion's head, mane, paws, and tail, as well as the central elements of any reverse device and the raised lettering. Technical strike qualities often include irregular flans, due to hand-cutting, and variable striking pressure, leading to areas of weakness, particularly on the periphery. The billon composition can also result in surface granularity or minor planchet imperfections.