1 Grosso

Historical Context: Arezzo's 1 Grosso, struck between 1230 and 1250, epitomizes the burgeoning economic and political autonomy of Italian city-states during the High Middle Ages. This era saw intense struggles between the Holy Roman Empire under Frederick II and the Papacy, with communes like Arezzo asserting their independence. As a significant Ghibelline city in Tuscany, its issuance of a substantial silver grosso signified robust commercial activity and a confident civic identity, demonstrating a departure from feudal monetary systems and solidifying its place among influential regional powers.

Artistry: Typical of early 13th-century Italian communal coinage, the artistry is symbolic rather than naturalistic; individual engravers remain anonymous. The obverse commonly depicts Saint Donatus, Arezzo's patron, schematically rendered standing with a crozier, accompanied by the legend "S DONATVS". The reverse features a central cross, often with pellets or stars in the quarters, encircled by the civic inscription "DE ARITIO". The robust, direct execution embodies local devotional and civic pride, characteristic of the period's numismatic iconography, prioritizing legibility and symbolic clarity.

Technical/Grading: For optimal grading of this 1 Grosso type, key high-points to assess include the definition of Saint Donatus's facial features, crozier, and drapery folds on the obverse. On the reverse, the central cross and any quarter symbols must be sharp. Legibility of the Lombardic or early Gothic legends on both sides is paramount. Expect typical medieval planchet irregularities and some off-centering. A strong, even strike on central devices and minimal wear on these raised elements are crucial for achieving higher numismatic grades, reflecting original minting quality.