1 cavallotto - Francesco Guglielmo Malaspina

Historical Context: Francesco Guglielmo Malaspina's 1594 1 cavallotto from the Marquisate of Tresana exemplifies the assertion of sovereignty by small Italian states in the late 16th century. Tresana, a minor but strategically positioned fiefdom in Lunigiana, exercised its ducal right to mint coinage. This silver issue, a common denomination across northern Italy, underscores the Malaspina family's autonomous status amidst the fragmented political landscape of the era, reflecting local economic needs and princely prestige within a complex web of regional powers.

Artistry: While the engraver remains unrecorded, the coin’s design likely reflects the provincial Late Renaissance style prevalent in smaller Italian mints. Cavallotti traditionally depicted a mounted knight (hence the name, from "cavallo" meaning horse), a motif symbolizing chivalry and martial power. The small 22mm flan and 2.05g weight would necessitate a robust, less intricate design compared to larger ducal issues, focusing on clear, recognizable heraldry or a stylized equestrian figure, balanced by the ruler's name and title.

Technical/Grading: This silver cavallotto, at 2.05 grams and 22 millimeters, typically exhibits characteristics of a provincial strike. High-points susceptible to wear would include the highest relief elements, such as the ruler's effigy (if present), the knight's helmet and horse's head, or the crown on the coat of arms. Technical strike qualities often include minor planchet irregularities, slight off-centering, and variable strike pressure, which can lead to areas of weakness in the legend or design details, common for mints of this scale and period.