1 Grosso - Jacopo Tiepolo

Historical Context: This 1 Grosso coin was issued by the Republic of Venice during the reign of Doge Jacopo Tiepolo, spanning from 1229 to 1249. This period marked a zenith for Venetian maritime and commercial dominance in the Mediterranean following the Fourth Crusade. The grosso, a high-purity silver coin, was instrumental in facilitating Venice's extensive trade network, serving as a cornerstone of its economic prosperity and influence across Europe and the Levant.

Artistry: Reflecting the prevailing artistic conventions of the early medieval period, the coin's design adheres to a distinct Venetian-Byzantine stylistic school. While the engraver remains anonymous, the consistent iconography across issues points to a well-established workshop. The obverse typically depicts Doge Jacopo Tiepolo receiving a banner from St. Mark, Venice's patron saint. The reverse features a hieratic depiction of Christ enthroned, holding the Gospels, a powerful symbol of divine authority and stability.

Technical/Grading: Struck in .965 fine silver, weighing 2 grams and measuring 21 millimeters, this grosso exemplifies the technical standards of its era. Key high-points for evaluation include the faces and drapery of St. Mark and the Doge on the obverse, and Christ's face, hands, and the details of the Gospels on the reverse. Strike quality can vary, with common characteristics including irregular flans, off-center strikes, and occasional weakness on the highest relief areas due to the manual striking process, yet its high silver content ensured its enduring value.