1 Quattrino - Ferdinando II 2nd type

Historical Context: Ferdinando II de' Medici's long reign (1621-1670) saw the Grand Duchy of Tuscany navigate a period of economic contraction and demographic challenges, including devastating plague outbreaks. Despite these difficulties and the broader European turmoil of the Thirty Years' War, Tuscany maintained neutrality. The copper 1 Quattrino, a foundational denomination in the Florentine monetary system, served as the primary medium for quotidian transactions, reflecting the Grand Duchy's efforts to provide stable small change amidst a complex bimetallic currency regime. Its extended issuance period underscores its persistent necessity for local commerce.

Artistry: The numismatic artistry of the Florentine mint under Ferdinando II typifies the late Renaissance-early Baroque transition, favoring clear heraldic symbolism over elaborate figural representations, especially on base metal issues. Specific engraver attributions for this common 1 Quattrino are generally undocumented. Designs typically feature the grand ducal monogram "F II" or the Medici arms (often with six *palle*) on one side, frequently paired with a simple cross or a legend on the reverse. The aesthetic emphasizes legibility and authoritative identification, with craftsmanship reflecting the utilitarian purpose of such low-denomination coinage.

Technical/Grading: For the 1 Quattrino of Ferdinando II, assessing strike and wear is crucial, particularly given its copper composition and high circulation. Key high-points for grading include the central devices: the definition and separation of the *palle* on the Medici shield, the clarity of the grand ducal monogram "F II," and the distinctness of any surrounding legends, such as "FERD. II. D. G. M. ETR. DVX." Due to the manufacturing processes and inherent softness of copper, full strikes are uncommon, and specimens exhibiting sharp detail on all elements, especially at the highest points of the design, are highly prized.