1 Follaro Type 3

Historical Context: The 1 Follaro Type 3 was issued by the Republic of Ragusa (modern Dubrovnik), a prominent maritime republic that flourished as a vital trading power in the Adriatic Sea. Spanning the period 1452-1612, this coin reflects Ragusa's golden age, where it maintained independence through astute diplomacy and trade, navigating the geopolitical landscape between Venice, the Ottoman Empire, and Hungary. As a small copper denomination, the Follaro was crucial for everyday transactions, underpinning the republic's robust mercantile economy and serving as a tangible symbol of its sovereignty and commercial activity.

Artistry: While specific engravers for these utilitarian copper issues are largely unrecorded, the 1 Follaro Type 3 generally adheres to the late medieval to early Renaissance stylistic conventions prevalent in the region, often influenced by Venetian and Byzantine numismatic traditions. The design typically features Ragusa's patron saint, St. Blaise (Sveti Vlaho), on the obverse, often depicted standing or enthroned, holding a crozier and a model of the city. The reverse commonly bears the city's name, "RAGVSINA," or a cross, emphasizing the republic's civic and religious identity. Type 3 would denote specific minor variations in these established motifs.

Technical/Grading: Struck in copper with a weight of 1.87 grams and a diameter of 17 millimeters, this Follaro is characteristic of small, base-metal coinage from the era. Due to its low intrinsic value and the manufacturing techniques of the time, strikes are frequently less precise than those of precious metal issues. High-points susceptible to wear or weak striking include the saint's facial features, the details of the city model, and any intricate drapery. Collectors should anticipate irregular flans, potential off-centering, and often weak or incomplete legends. Copper issues are also prone to environmental damage and corrosion, impacting surface preservation.