1 Schilling - Otto II of Mosbach

Historical Context: Otto II of Mosbach, Pfalzgraf von Mosbach-Neumarkt, reigned from 1448 to 1499, with this Schilling issue spanning 1467-1499. As a Wittelsbach ruler, his principality was a sovereign, though smaller, territorial entity within the fragmented Holy Roman Empire. Issuing a Schilling, a common silver denomination, highlights Palatinate-Mosbach-Neumarkt's economic autonomy and participation in regional trade during the late medieval period, a time of evolving monetary systems across Central Europe.

Artistry: The engraver for this Schilling remains anonymous, typical for coins of this era. Stylistically, it adheres to the prevalent late Gothic tradition, characterized by heraldic prominence. The obverse would typically feature the Palatine lion or Wittelsbach lozenges, perhaps surmounted by a ducal coronet. The reverse might display a prominent cross or the imperial eagle, surrounded by Latin legends detailing Otto II's titles. The design emphasizes clear, stylized heraldic devices over naturalistic portraiture.

Technical/Grading: High-points for this Schilling would typically include the raised elements of the heraldic devices, such as the lion's head, the edges of the Wittelsbach lozenges, or the central points of a cross. Due to manual striking methods, specimens often exhibit characteristic planchet irregularities, weak strikes, and occasional off-center alignment. Die wear and minor die cracks are also common. A well-struck example shows full detail on central motifs and legible legends, despite inherent production limitations.