1/8 Soldo - Emanuele Filiberto 1st type

Emissor Savoy, Duchy of
Ano 1528-1580
Tipo Standard circulation coin
Valor 1/8 Soldo (1⁄160)
Moeda Lira
Composição Billon
Peso 0.69 g
Diâmetro 15 mm
Espessura 0.2 mm
Formato Round
Técnica
Orientação Coin alignment ↑↓
Gravador(es) Obverse: Nicolas Vialard
Reverse: Nicolas vialard
Em circulação até 30 August 1580
Referência(s) MIR#555, CNI I#492, Biaggi#469
Descrição do anverso Crowned shield of Savoy accosted by F-E.
Escrita do anverso Latin
Legenda do anverso E-F
(Translation: Emanuele Filiberto)
Descrição do reverso Cross of Saint Maurice cantoned with the letters F-E-R-T.
Escrita do reverso Latin
Legenda do reverso FERT
Bordo Smooth
Casa da moeda
Tiragem ND (1528-1580) - -
ID Numisquare 4097403280
Informações adicionais

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.

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