Catalog
| Issuer | Papal States |
|---|---|
| Year | 1721-1723 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Grosso (0.05) |
| Currency | Scudo (1534-1835) |
| Composition | Silver (.9167) |
| Weight | 1.35 g |
| Diameter | 18 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Munt#10-12, Berman#2524, MIR#2404 |
| Obverse description | Coat of Arms |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
INNOC · XIII P · M · AN · II (Translation: Innocent 13th Supreme Pontiff Year 2) |
| Reverse description | Script from Psalm CXLV, 8 |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
ERIGIT ELISOS (Translation: Supports those who fall) |
| Edge | Plain |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (1721) - AN. I - ND (1722) - AN. II - ND (1723) - AN. III (no date) - 1723 - AN. III (with date) - |
| Numisquare ID | 1005221730 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 1 Grosso of Innocent XIII, issued between 1721 and 1723, represents a period of renewed papal focus on moral authority and fiscal prudence following the lengthy pontificate of Clement XI. Michelangelo dei Conti, elected Pope Innocent XIII, was a scion of a prominent Roman noble family. His pontificate, though brief, was marked by efforts to combat nepotism and to provide relief to impoverished states and families, reflecting the coin's poignant motto, "ERIGIT ELISOS" (He raises the fallen). This phrase, drawn from Virgil, underscored his commitment to restoring dignity and stability, both within the Church and in the broader European political landscape.
Artistry: While the specific engraver for this particular Grosso is not explicitly recorded, the stylistic hallmarks of the Papal mint under Innocent XIII often point to the influence of the Hamerani family, particularly Ottone Hamerani, who served as chief engraver during this era. The coin's design embodies the late Baroque aesthetic prevalent in Roman numismatics, characterized by a dignified, classically-inspired bust of the pontiff on the obverse. The reverse, featuring the "ERIGIT ELISOS" motto, typically incorporates either the Papal arms or a symbolic representation of divine aid or restoration, conveying the pontiff's core message through elegant and concise iconography.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .9167 fine silver, this 18mm Grosso, weighing 1.35 grams, typically exhibits a good strike quality for its denomination. Key high-points for wear and strike assessment include the highest curls of Innocent XIII's wig, the tip of his nose, and the details of his cope on the obverse. On the reverse, the raised elements of the Papal arms, if present, or the serifs and outlines of the lettering for the motto, are crucial. Collectors should look for full, even strikes, as minor planchet irregularities or slight weakness in the strike, particularly at the peripheries, are not uncommon for these smaller, circulating issues.