10 Kreutzers

Historical Context: The 1797 10 Kreutzers from the City of Bern was struck during a tumultuous period, marking the twilight of the independent Bernese Republic. As a leading canton within the Old Swiss Confederacy, Bern exercised considerable power, governed by its patrician council. This coinage precedes the French invasion of 1798 and the subsequent establishment of the Helvetic Republic, which dissolved the old federal structures. Thus, this coin represents the final expressions of Bern's sovereign numismatic authority before a radical transformation of the Swiss political landscape.

Artistry: The artistry of this 10 Kreutzers reflects the prevailing late 18th-century European numismatic aesthetic, characterized by a blend of late Baroque and emerging Neoclassical elements, often with a republican simplicity. While the specific engraver is typically unrecorded for such issues, the design generally features the iconic Bernese bear on the obverse, symbolizing the city-state. The reverse commonly displays the denomination and date, often encircled by a wreath or incorporating the Bernese shield, sometimes accompanied by the enduring motto "DOMINUS PROVIDEBIT" (The Lord will provide).

Technical/Grading: Technically, this silver 10 Kreutzers (2.35g, 21mm) exhibits characteristics typical of its era. High-points susceptible to wear include the bear's fur and musculature, the details of any crown or shield, and the sharp edges of the lettering. Due to varying strike pressure and often less-than-perfect planchet preparation, examples can display areas of weakness, particularly on opposing sides. Original mint luster, if present, would manifest as a soft cartwheel effect, though attractive cabinet toning is more commonly observed on well-preserved specimens.