1 Ducat - Paul II

Historical Context: This 1 Ducat, issued from Bologna during Paul II's pontificate (1464-1471), signifies papal authority in a key city of the Papal States. Pietro Barbo, Pope Paul II, was a Venetian cardinal known for his patronage of arts and efforts to strengthen the Church's temporal power. Bologna, a crucial economic and strategic center, maintained autonomy but remained under papal suzerainty, its mint producing coinage bearing the reigning pontiff's name and insignia.

Artistry: The ducat's design reflects the early Renaissance aesthetic of Italian mints, blending traditional heraldry with emerging styles. While the engraver is anonymous, the craftsmanship indicates a Bolognese master. The obverse typically features the papal arms, surmounted by the tiara and crossed keys, symbolizing Paul II’s authority. The reverse commonly displays a religious figure or inscription, with titulature meticulously rendered in a clear, legible script, characteristic of the period's numismatic artistry.

Technical/Grading: Struck in gold (3.35 grams, 20.5 millimeters), this ducat exhibits typical hand-struck qualities. High-points for grading include the papal tiara's details and the heraldic shield's definition. Expect strike variations, potentially causing peripheral weakness. Planchet quality can vary, showing minor irregularities or flan cracks. Sharpness of lettering and overall field preservation are key condition indicators, alongside evidence of die wear or adjustment marks inherent to the manufacturing process.