1 Quattrino - Clement XIII

Historical Context: This 1 Quattrino was issued under Pope Clement XIII (Carlo della Torre di Rezzonico), whose pontificate spanned 1758-1769. This mid-18th century period saw the Papal States navigating significant political pressures, notably concerning the Jesuit order. Gubbio, a historic city within the Papal States, maintained minting rights. It produced essential low-denomination copper coinage like this Quattrino, facilitating local commerce and daily transactions, reflecting the era's economic necessity for small change.

Artistry: The design of this utilitarian copper piece, lacking the grandeur of larger issues, adheres to the provincial Baroque aesthetic common for the period. The specific engraver for this Gubbio issue remains unrecorded, typical for low-value denominations. The obverse features the Papal arms of Clement XIII, comprising the triple tiara, crossed keys, and the Rezzonico family escutcheon. The reverse typically displays the denomination, "QUATTRINO," often with the mint name or a simple religious symbol, executed with functional clarity.

Technical/Grading: Struck in copper, 2.1 grams, 22 millimeters, this Quattrino is characteristic of common circulating currency. High-points for wear and strike include the tiara and details of the Papal arms, and reverse lettering. Due to copper's nature and rudimentary provincial mint striking, examples often exhibit weak or uneven strikes, particularly in central design elements. Planchet imperfections, such as laminations or irregularities, are common, alongside expected signs of heavy circulation and environmental toning or corrosion.