1 Baiocco - Benedict XIV

Historical Context: This 1 Baiocco from Ferrara was issued during Benedict XIV's pontificate (1740-1758), a period of enlightened reform for the Papal States. Prospero Lorenzo Lambertini, an intellectual pope, actively modernized administration and patronized arts. Ferrara, a key Papal city, maintained its own mint, producing essential regional currency. This copper baiocco served as a fundamental unit for daily commerce, reflecting Benedict XIV's efforts to foster economic stability and ensure consistent economic activity across his dominion.

Artistry: The coin's design embodies the late Baroque style common in 18th-century Italian numismatics. The obverse features a dignified, idealized bust of Benedict XIV, often facing right, encircled by his pontifical titles. While specific Ferrara engravers are often unrecorded, the execution aligns with contemporary Papal mint practices. The reverse prominently displays the Papal arms—the tiara and crossed keys—or an allegorical figure, with denomination and date, clearly rendered on the generous planchet, reflecting traditional Papal iconography.

Technical/Grading: Struck in copper, this substantial 32mm, 10.6g coin often exhibits variable strike quality. High-points for wear include the pope's hair, ear, and cheekbone on the obverse; the tiara and key handles on the reverse. Due to the large die surface and softer metal, peripheral areas may show strike weakness, even with strong central details. Planchet imperfections like laminations or minor flaws are common, requiring careful evaluation for accurate grading and overall condition assessment.