Katalog
| Emittent | Sicily, Kingdom of |
|---|---|
| Jahr | 1139 |
| Typ | Standard circulation coin |
| Nennwert | 1 Follaro (1⁄72) |
| Währung | Tari (1060-1754) |
| Material | Bronze |
| Gewicht | 1.3 g |
| Durchmesser | 14 mm |
| Dicke | |
| Form | Octagonal (8-sided, Irregular; nonagonal also seen) |
| Prägetechnik | Hammered |
| Ausrichtung | |
| Stempelschneider | |
| Im Umlauf bis | |
| Referenz(en) | Spahr1#62 |
| Aversbeschreibung | Kufic inscription in four lines, date on lowest line |
|---|---|
| Aversschrift | Arabic (kufic) |
| Averslegende |
(Translation: By the order of Roger the Great, with God`s help, struck in Messina 533) |
| Reversbeschreibung | Christ pantokrator |
| Reversschrift | Greek |
| Reverslegende |
IC XC (Translation: Jesus Christ) |
| Rand | |
| Prägestätte | |
| Auflage |
533 (1139) - 8 Sept 1138 - 27 Aug, 1139 - |
| Numisquare-ID | 8172485360 |
| Zusätzliche Informationen |
Historical Context: This 1 Follaro coin was issued in 1139 under Ruggero II (Roger II), the formidable first King of Sicily. His reign (1130-1154) marked the consolidation of Norman power in Southern Italy and Sicily, establishing a sophisticated multi-cultural kingdom. The bronze Follaro served as the backbone of daily commerce, facilitating trade within a realm that synthesized Norman, Byzantine, and Islamic traditions. This period was crucial for the nascent kingdom's stability and economic integration.
Artistry: The engraver of this modest bronze piece remains anonymous, typical for medieval coinage of this class. Stylistically, it belongs to the Norman-Sicilian school, blending Western medieval forms with elements from Byzantine and Islamic traditions. For the Spahr 62 type, the design typically features a central cross, often with pellets, on one side and a Kufic inscription on the reverse. This reflects the diverse linguistic and cultural heritage of Ruggero's kingdom, constrained by the small 14mm flan.
Technical/Grading: Given its bronze composition and 14mm diameter, the technical strike quality of this Follaro often varies significantly. High-points for wear and strike typically include the central cross and prominent elements of the Kufic inscription. Due to hand-hammered production, examples frequently exhibit irregular flans, weak strikes, and off-centering, particularly around the legends. Porosity in the bronze is also common. A well-centered example with clear central devices and legible inscriptions is considered exceptional.