1 Denaro - Frederick II

Emittent Sicily, Kingdom of
Jahr 1243
Typ Standard circulation coin
Nennwert 1 Denier (1⁄120)
Währung Tari (1060-1754)
Material Billon (.065 silver)
Gewicht 0.8 g
Durchmesser 18 mm
Dicke 0.6 mm
Form Round (irregular)
Prägetechnik Hammered
Ausrichtung Coin alignment ↑↓
Stempelschneider
Im Umlauf bis
Referenz(en) Spahr1#128, MIR#97, MEC XIV#555 - 557
Aversbeschreibung Head of Frederick II without crown facing right.
Aversschrift Latin
Averslegende +F • ROM • IPR` • SEP • AVG
(Translation: Frederick emperor of the Romans always august.)
Reversbeschreibung Eagle with head facing right
Reversschrift Latin
Reverslegende +• R • IER SL`ET SICIL` •
(Translation: King of Jerusalem and Sicily.)
Rand
Prägestätte
Auflage ND (1243) - -
Numisquare-ID 5436093850
Zusätzliche Informationen

Historical Context: The 1 Denaro of Frederick II, issued in 1243 from the Kingdom of Sicily, represents a pivotal moment in the reign of "Stupor Mundi." As Holy Roman Emperor and King of Sicily, Frederick II meticulously centralized his realm. This coin's issuance, amidst his relentless conflicts with the Papacy and Lombard League, underscores his unwavering assertion of sovereign authority and economic control. It serves as a tangible testament to the practical currency of a sophisticated, embattled imperial power.

Artistry: Artistry on medieval billon issues like this 1 Denaro prioritized legibility and symbolic representation. Engraver names are unrecorded for this period, but the coin reflects the broader Hohenstaufen numismatic style. Under Frederick II, this style sometimes blended classical Roman influences with contemporary medieval iconography, though simpler on base metal. The design likely featured a central cross, an imperial eagle, or the monarch's monogram, executed with a direct, functional aesthetic for daily transactions.

Technical/Grading: Given its billon composition (.065 silver), small size (18mm), and light weight (0.8g), the 1243 Denaro is inherently susceptible to wear and degradation. High-points for preservation assessment typically include the central device (e.g., cross arms, eagle's head/body, or prominent monogram letters) and the outer legends. Due to medieval minting, irregular flans, off-center strikes, and weak areas are common. Well-centered, fully struck examples with clear legends are particularly desirable.

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