1 sesino - Guglielmo I Malaspina

Historical Context: Guglielmo I Malaspina ruled the Marquisate of Tresana (1528-1580), a small Lunigiana state within the fragmented political landscape of Renaissance Italy. As a member of the influential Malaspina family, his right to mint coinage, like this sesino, affirmed his autonomous feudal sovereignty. This denomination was crucial for local commerce, signifying his authority amidst broader European power struggles for control of the peninsula.

Artistry: The design of this sesino, characteristic of minor 16th-century feudal issues, reflects a localized Renaissance numismatic style. While the engraver is unknown, the artistry prioritized legibility of the ruler's name and title (e.g., GVLIELMVS MALASPINA) and the family's heraldic device, often a spined branch or an imperial eagle. Given the small 17mm module, the imagery would be compact, focusing on essential identifying elements rather than elaborate artistic flourishes.

Technical/Grading: Struck in billon on a small 17mm flan, this sesino typically exhibits technical limitations. High-points prone to wear include the highest relief areas of any bust (hair, nose, shoulder) or the crown and central charges of the coat of arms. Due to the billon alloy and rudimentary minting techniques of small feudal mints, examples often show irregular flans, weak or uneven strikes, and off-centering. Planchet imperfections are also common, impacting overall visual appeal and grading.