1 Scudo d'oro - Johann Jakob Trivulzio

Emittente Lordship of Mesocco (Grisons)
Anno 1487-1518
Tipo Standard circulation coin
Valore 1 Scudo d'oro del sole (5)
Valuta Testone (1487-1549)
Composizione Gold
Peso 3.4 g
Diametro
Spessore
Forma Round (irregular)
Tecnica Hammered
Orientamento
Incisore/i
In circolazione fino al
Riferimento/i MIR LOM#972, CNI IV#3, HMZ 2#564
Descrizione del dritto Finely beaded circle encloses a shield bearing three crosses, flanking are twin I's, each with three tiny crescents.
Scrittura del dritto Latin
Legenda del dritto CRISTVS VINCIT
Descrizione del rovescio Cross fleury in double circle.
Scrittura del rovescio Latin
Legenda del rovescio CRISTVS REGNAT
Bordo
Zecca Mesocco, Switzerland (1487-1518)
Tiratura ND (1487-1518)
ID Numisquare 5936176313
Informazioni aggiuntive

Historical Context: The 1 Scudo d'oro of Johann Jakob Trivulzio, issued by the Lordship of Mesocco (Grisons) from 1487-1518, is a significant artifact from the turbulent Italian Wars. Trivulzio, a celebrated condottiero and Marshal of France, acquired strategic Mesocco in 1487. His issuance of gold coinage, a rare privilege for such a lordship, powerfully asserted his wealth, military prestige, and sovereign ambition amidst shifting allegiances. This coin tangibly symbolizes his formidable influence in a complex era.

Artistry: The Scudo d'oro's design, though from a provincial mint, was influenced by Italian Renaissance numismatic trends. The obverse typically features the detailed Trivulzio family coat of arms—a shield with specific heraldic charges—or a stylized bust of Johann Jakob. The reverse commonly bears a religious motif, like a standing saint or a cruciform design, often with a mintmark or Latin inscription. Engraving, while less refined than major Italian centers, aimed for clear legibility and symbolic representation of authority.

Technical/Grading: Struck in gold at 3.4 grams, this hand-hammered coin exhibits characteristics typical of late medieval issues. High-points for wear or strike weakness are generally found on intricate heraldic details, like the crown or shield charges, or the highest relief of any portraiture. A well-preserved example displays a strong, even strike, retaining good original luster, and showing minimal evidence of planchet irregularities or off-centering, common in coinage from smaller mints of this era.

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