1 Cagliarese - Charles Emmanuel III

Historical Context: This 1 Cagliarese coin was issued during the reign of Charles Emmanuel III, King of Sardinia and Duke of Savoy, between 1732 and 1745. His rule marked a period of significant military and diplomatic activity for Piedmont-Sardinia, including participation in the War of the Polish Succession and the War of the Austrian Succession. As a low-denomination copper coin, the Cagliarese was essential for everyday commerce, facilitating transactions for the common populace and underscoring the kingdom's economic needs during an era of expansion and consolidation.

Artistry: While specific engraver details for this common copper issue are often unrecorded, the coin's design reflects the prevalent Baroque aesthetic of the early 18th century. The obverse typically features a laureate or armored bust of Charles Emmanuel III, rendered with a regal yet somewhat idealized naturalism characteristic of the era's portraiture. The reverse commonly displays the crowned Savoyard shield, often with the cross of Savoy, executed with clear heraldic precision. The overall design prioritizes legibility and royal authority, typical for circulating coinage.

Technical/Grading: Given its copper composition and low denomination, the 1 Cagliarese often exhibits variable strike quality and considerable wear. Key high-points for preservation assessment include the details of the king's hair, laurel wreath, and the finer lines of his facial features on the obverse. On the reverse, the intricacies of the crown above the shield and the lines of the Savoyard cross are critical indicators. Well-struck examples, free from common planchet flaws and heavy circulation marks, are highly desirable, showcasing the intended design clarity.