1 Kreuzer - Henri I vine leaves

Emittente Duchy of Neuchâtel
Anno 1590
Tipo Standard circulation coin
Valore 1 Kreuzer (1⁄84)
Valuta Écu (1587-1707)
Composizione Billon
Peso 1.01 g
Diametro
Spessore
Forma Round (irregular)
Tecnica
Orientamento
Incisore/i
In circolazione fino al
Riferimento/i HMZ 2#680d, Froidevaux#T9
Descrizione del dritto Quarterly shield of Orléans-Longueville and Neuchâtel surmounted by rounded crown. Vine leaves fleurons.
Scrittura del dritto Latin
Legenda del dritto H · D · LONG · C · S · NEOC 9 0
(Translation: Henri, Duke of Longueville, Sovereign Count of Neuchâtel.)
Descrizione del rovescio Forked cross cantoned by four `H`, surmounted by crowns seen from below.
Scrittura del rovescio Latin
Legenda del rovescio OCVLI · DOM · SVPER · IVSTOS ✿
(Translation: The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous.)
Bordo
Zecca
Tiratura 1590 - -
ID Numisquare 9536371560
Informazioni aggiuntive

Historical Context: This 1 Kreuzer, issued in 1590, originates from the Duchy of Neuchâtel under Henri I d'Orléans-Longueville. As Prince, Henri I was a prominent French nobleman, Duke of Longueville, whose rule coincided with the tumultuous French Wars of Religion. Neuchâtel, a Protestant principality, maintained relative stability. This coinage asserts ducal authority and met the practical need for local currency amidst shifting European monetary standards.

Artistry: The design of this billon Kreuzer reflects the functional aesthetic typical of smaller late 16th-century denominations. No specific engraver is attributed; the style aligns with regional minting practices, prioritizing legibility over elaborate detail. The obverse likely features Henri I's titulature and a simplified ducal emblem. The reverse displays the denomination and date, distinguished by the characteristic "vine leaves" motif, a decorative element common in regional heraldry, providing a distinct local signature to the coin's utilitarian design.

Technical/Grading: Struck in billon, weighing 1.01 grams, this coin typically exhibits challenges inherent to 16th-century minting. High-points for grading include central lettering, the date, and vine leaf details. Due to material and striking methods, full strikes are uncommon; details are often shallow, especially on outer legends. Planchet quality varies, showing laminations or irregular flans. Collectors should seek examples with clear dates, legible legends, and well-defined central motifs, as these areas frequently suffer from wear or weak striking.

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