Catalogue
| Émetteur | Sion, Bishopric of |
|---|---|
| Année | 1499-1522 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Valeur | 3 Groschen (3⁄16) |
| Devise | Thaler (1475-1780) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Poids | 2.78 g |
| Diamètre | 26 mm |
| Épaisseur | |
| Forme | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Graveur(s) | |
| En circulation jusqu’à | |
| Référence(s) | HMZ 1#2-1023 |
| Description de l’avers | Shield over crossed crozier and sword, mitre above, all within circle. |
|---|---|
| Écriture de l’avers | |
| Légende de l’avers |
+MATHEVS·EPS·SEDV`·PRE`·ET·CO`·VA (Translation: Matheus Episcopus Sedunensis Praefectus Et Comes Vallesiae Matthaus, Bishop of Sion, Governor and Count of Valais) |
| Description du revers | Two full figure saints. |
| Écriture du revers | |
| Légende du revers |
S CATERINA S·TE ODOLVS (Translation: Saint Catherine, Saint Theodore) |
| Tranche | |
| Atelier | |
| Tirage |
ND (1499-1522) - - |
| ID Numisquare | 6834605130 |
| Informations supplémentaires |
Historical Context: The 3 Groschen coin, issued by Matthaus Schiner as Bishop of Sion (1499-1522), encapsulates a tumultuous era in Swiss and European history. Schiner was a formidable cardinal, diplomat, and military leader, a key player in the Italian Wars. His tenure saw Sion, a prince-bishopric within the Holy Roman Empire, wield considerable temporal power. Coinage manifested his authority and the economic strength of the Valais during the early Renaissance, a period of shifting alliances and religious reform.
Artistry: The design of this 3 Groschen reflects the stylistic transition from late Gothic to early Renaissance in the Alpine regions. While a specific engraver is rarely recorded, the craftsmanship suggests a local or itinerant master. The obverse typically features a bust of Bishop Schiner, often in ecclesiastical vestments or armor, symbolizing his dual role. The reverse commonly depicts a religious motif, such as Saint Theodul, Sion's patron saint, or the episcopal coat of arms, blending traditional rigidity with emerging naturalism.
Technical/Grading: This silver 3 Groschen, weighing 2.78 grams and measuring 26mm, shows characteristics of early 16th-century minting. Key high-points include Schiner’s facial features (nose, cheekbones), the details of his mitre or helmet, and intricate episcopal arms. Strikes can vary, often showing weakness in peripheral legends or off-centeredness. Full detail on higher relief elements, minimal planchet flaws, and a sharp strike would denote a premium example.