1 Grosso - Vincenzo I

Historical Context: This 1 Grosso coin was issued under Vincenzo I Gonzaga, Duke of Mantua and Montferrat, during his reign from 1587 to 1612. Montferrat, a strategically vital duchy in northwestern Italy, remained under Gonzaga control, albeit with growing financial strains on the ducal treasury. The period saw Italy navigating the complex political landscape following the Renaissance, with Vincenzo I himself being a significant patron of the arts and sciences, yet also known for his extravagant spending. The Grosso, a common billon denomination, served as an essential medium for everyday commerce, reflecting the economic realities of the ducal states at the turn of the 17th century.

Artistry: The specific engraver for this billon Grosso is typically unrecorded, likely a master of the ducal mint workshop. Stylistically, the coin embodies the late Renaissance tradition, transitioning towards early Baroque influences prevalent in northern Italian minting. Designs on such minor denominations prioritize clear identification over elaborate artistic detail. The obverse likely features a simplified ducal portrait of Vincenzo I or his monogram, possibly with a ducal crown or cap. The reverse typically displays a dynastic emblem, the ducal coat of arms of Montferrat, or a simple cross, often surrounded by a legend denoting the ruler or mint city.

Technical/Grading: Struck in billon, with a weight of 1.05 grams and a diameter of 18.5 millimeters, this Grosso exemplifies the technical challenges of its era. Billon alloys are inherently prone to corrosion and often result in weaker strikes compared to silver or gold issues. Common high-points for wear or strike weakness include the hair and crown details on any portrait, the central elements of a cross, or the raised features of a shield. Planchet quality can vary significantly, with irregularities, minor cracks, or incomplete flan shapes being frequent. Full, sharp details are rare, and specimens often exhibit weak strikes, particularly at the peripheries, and varying degrees of surface degradation.