Catalog
| Issuer | Wallachia |
|---|---|
| Year | 1364-1377 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Ducat |
| Currency | Ducat (1364-1714) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 0.76 g |
| Diameter | 18 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | MBR#17, 19-20 |
| Obverse description | Shield divided per pale (split vertically in half). The left half with Four bars tenné (cross hatch representing orange) on argent (no hatch representing silver). The right half argent (no hatch). Two square dots above. Pearled circle around. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Cyrillic |
| Obverse lettering | ☩ ІധaN ВЛaYICЛa BOIBOДa |
| Reverse description | Golden eagle regardant (looking over its shoulder) right with cross under wing, standing on great helm left. Visor in shape of a cross. Star symbol in left field |
| Reverse script | Cyrillic |
| Reverse lettering | : ІധaN BЛaTI : |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (1364-1377) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 4564812910 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This 1 Ducat, issued by Vladislav I (Vlaicu Vodă) of Wallachia (1364-1377), marks a critical period for the principality's sovereignty. Vladislav I navigated complex pressures from Hungary and the nascent Ottoman Empire. Issuing an independent coinage, even a silver piece termed "Ducat," powerfully declared Wallachia's economic and political autonomy. This nomenclature, echoing Venetian gold ducats, underscores the ruler's ambition to establish a stable, recognized monetary system for his emerging state.
Artistry: The engraver for this Type IIIb1 Ducat remains anonymous, typical of medieval mints. Stylistically, Wallachian coinage of this era blends local traditions with Hungarian and Byzantine numismatic influences. The design commonly features the Wallachian eagle, often with a cross in its beak, symbolizing state and faith. Obverse and reverse legends, typically Latin or Cyrillic, would identify the ruler. The execution reflects the practical demands of a nascent mint rather than the refined artistry of major European centers.
Technical/Grading: This small silver coin, 0.76 grams and 18 millimeters, presents unique assessment challenges. High-points for wear and strike quality typically include the central eagle's head, the cross, and the outer legends. Due to the hammered minting process, common technical characteristics include irregular flans, weak strikes, and occasional off-centering. The thin fabric makes it susceptible to damage. Full, crisp strikes are exceptionally rare, with most examples exhibiting some flatness in design elements.