1 Pfennig - Martin of Krenkingen

Historical Context: This 1 Pfennig coin, issued by the Abbey of Reichenau in 1501, dates to the abbacy of Martin of Krenkingen (1492-1508). Situated on an island in Lake Constance, Reichenau was a powerful imperial abbey with a rich history, though its influence was waning by the early 16th century. The issuance of coinage, a fundamental right (Münzrecht) granted by the Holy Roman Emperor, underscored the Abbey's continued sovereignty and economic autonomy. This small silver denomination served as essential currency for daily transactions within the Abbey's territories, reflecting the local economic needs of the late medieval to early Renaissance period.

Artistry: The engraver of this specific Pfennig remains anonymous, typical for such common, low-denomination coinage of the era. The stylistic school evident on these pieces generally adheres to a late Gothic aesthetic, characterized by simplified, often stylized representations rather than the emerging Renaissance naturalism. While specific designs can vary, Pfennigs from Reichenau under Martin of Krenkingen typically feature a crozier or a simplified bust of the abbot on one side, and a cross or the Abbey's shield on the reverse. The minute flan size (0.23 gg) necessitated a compact and often somewhat crude design, prioritizing legibility of key symbols over intricate detail.

Technical/Grading: As a hammered silver coin of its period, the 1 Pfennig of Martin of Krenkingen frequently exhibits characteristics of early minting technology. High-points, such as the central elements of a crozier, the abbot's facial features (if present), or the center of a cross, are often the first areas to show wear. Technical strike qualities are highly variable; off-center strikes, irregular flan shapes, and weak or uneven striking pressure are common. The small planchet size and low relief mean that full design details are rarely sharply rendered, making well-centered examples with strong strikes and minimal wear highly desirable to collectors.