1 Soldo - Victor Amadeus II

Historical Context: Victor Amadeus II, Duke of Savoy, was a pivotal figure in early 18th-century European politics. This 1 Soldo, minted between 1717 and 1718, places it during his tenure as King of Sicily (1713-1720), a significant elevation in status secured after the War of the Spanish Succession. The soldo, a fractional billon denomination, was crucial for daily commerce within the burgeoning Savoyard state, reflecting the economic necessities of a kingdom consolidating its power and influence. Its widespread circulation facilitated trade and underscored the practical demands for currency in an era of expanding royal authority.

Artistry: The artistic execution of this 1 Soldo reflects the functional aesthetic typical of low-denomination coinage from the early 18th century, likely crafted by anonymous court engravers. The obverse typically presents a laureate or draped bust of Victor Amadeus II, rendered in a conservative Baroque style that emphasizes regal authority and profile clarity rather than elaborate ornamentation. The reverse commonly features a crowned shield of Savoy, bearing the traditional cross, or a royal monogram, often accompanied by the date and denomination. Design elements prioritize legibility and rapid striking, consistent with the coin's role as a workhorse currency.

Technical/Grading: Given its billon composition (1.9g, 21mm, .105 silver), this 1 Soldo frequently exhibits strike inconsistencies and rapid wear. High-points susceptible to abrasion typically include the highest curls of the ruler's hair, the brow, and the folds of drapery on the shoulder. On the reverse, the crown's details and the central elements of the Savoyard shield are most prone to flattening. Planchet quality can vary, leading to irregular flans, weak strikes, and incomplete legends. Due to its base metal content, corrosion and uneven, dark toning are common, often obscuring finer details and making well-preserved, problem-free examples quite scarce.