Catalogo
| Emittente | Savoy, Duchy of |
|---|---|
| Anno | 1528-1580 |
| Tipo | Standard circulation coin |
| Valore | 1/8 Soldo (1⁄160) |
| Valuta | Lira |
| Composizione | Billon |
| Peso | 0.69 g |
| Diametro | 15 mm |
| Spessore | 0.2 mm |
| Forma | Round |
| Tecnica | |
| Orientamento | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Incisore/i | Obverse: Nicolas Vialard Reverse: Nicolas vialard |
| In circolazione fino al | 30 August 1580 |
| Riferimento/i | MIR#555, CNI I#492, Biaggi#469 |
| Descrizione del dritto | Crowned shield of Savoy accosted by F-E. |
|---|---|
| Scrittura del dritto | Latin |
| Legenda del dritto |
E-F (Translation: Emanuele Filiberto) |
| Descrizione del rovescio | Cross of Saint Maurice cantoned with the letters F-E-R-T. |
| Scrittura del rovescio | Latin |
| Legenda del rovescio | FERT |
| Bordo | Smooth |
| Zecca | |
| Tiratura |
ND (1528-1580) - - |
| ID Numisquare | 4097403280 |
| Informazioni aggiuntive |
Historical Context: This 1/8 Soldo was issued by Emanuele Filiberto, Duke of Savoy, during his transformative reign (1528-1580). A pivotal figure, he skillfully navigated complex geopolitics, restoring Savoyard sovereignty after decades of foreign occupation. A renowned military leader and statesman, Emanuele Filiberto consolidated territories and moved the capital to Turin. This fractional denomination was crucial for daily commerce, signifying a stable, independent monetary system following significant upheaval.
Artistry: Specific engraver details are typically unrecorded for such small, utilitarian denominations. The coin’s design reflects the practical aesthetic prevalent in mid-16th century Renaissance coinage. Given the diminutive 15mm flan, artistry prioritizes clarity over intricate detail. The obverse likely features a simplified ducal bust or monogram; the reverse typically displays the ducal arms, often the Savoyard cross. This "1st type" suggests an initial design, conveying ducal authority effectively within the limited space.
Technical/Grading: Struck in billon, a low-silver alloy, this 1/8 Soldo often presents with characteristic strike and planchet qualities. Due to its small size (15mm) and minimal weight (0.69g), full, sharp strikes are uncommon; weakness is frequently observed on high-points like a bust's hair, nose, crown, or central heraldic elements. Planchet irregularities, including off-center strikes or irregular flan shapes, are also common. Surface preservation can be challenging given the billon composition, often showing wear or environmental interaction.