1 Batzen Small Date

Historical Context: The 1807 Aargau 1 Batzen emerges from a pivotal period in Swiss history, following the dissolution of the Helvetic Republic and the establishment of the Swiss Confederation under Napoleon's 1803 Act of Mediation. Aargau, formerly a subject territory of Bern, gained full cantonal sovereignty, necessitating its own monetary issues to assert economic autonomy and facilitate local commerce. This coin represents the nascent financial infrastructure of the newly independent canton, with the Batzen serving as a crucial fractional denomination in a complex, multi-currency environment, reflecting Aargau's newly acquired fiscal independence.

Artistry: The artistic execution of this billon issue aligns with the pragmatic aesthetic prevalent in early 19th-century Swiss cantonal coinage. While a specific engraver for this type is not consistently documented, the style reflects a functional classicism, prioritizing clear legibility of legends and heraldic devices over elaborate ornamentation. The obverse prominently features the Cantonal coat of arms—three wavy lines representing rivers and three stars—executed with a robust, unpretentious clarity. The reverse typically presents the denomination and date within a wreath, characterized by straightforward lettering.

Technical/Grading: For optimal grading, collectors should prioritize the sharpness of the central devices, particularly the three stars and the crests of the wavy lines on the obverse, as these are frequently the first areas to show wear due to their prominence. On the reverse, the legibility of the "1807" date, specifically the "small date" characteristic crucial for distinguishing KM#9.1, and the fine details of the wreath are critical. As a billon issue, surface integrity, including minimal porosity, environmental damage, or planchet flaws, significantly impacts grade, alongside a strong, even strike across the legends.