10 Tornesi - Ferdinando I

Historical Context: The 1819 10 Tornesi of Ferdinando I emerged from a transformative era for the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. Following the Congress of Vienna, Ferdinando IV of Naples and III of Sicily unified his realms, becoming Ferdinando I in 1816. This copper denomination was crucial for daily commerce, symbolizing the re-establishment of Bourbon authority and currency standardization after the Napoleonic era. Its issuance reflected the monarch's efforts to stabilize the economy and assert sovereignty.

Artistry: While the specific engraver for this common issue is often unrecorded, the coin's design adheres to the prevailing Neoclassical style of the early 19th century. The obverse features an idealized bust of King Ferdinando I, rendered with classical restraint. The reverse displays the crowned royal arms of the Two Sicilies, elaborate with heraldic devices, symbolizing the unified kingdom. The aesthetic emphasizes clarity, balance, and formal representation of royal power, characteristic of post-Napoleonic European coinage.

Technical/Grading: As a large copper issue (31.19g, 39mm), the 10 Tornesi often exhibits characteristic wear patterns. High-points for grading include the king's hair, ear, and the highest relief areas of the crown and armorial bearings on the reverse. Strike quality varies; major legends and devices are generally bold, but finer details within the hair or heraldry might show softness due to uneven striking pressure on the broad planchet. Original red luster is rare, most examples presenting various shades of brown or green patina, critical for eye appeal and preservation.