4 Bologninos - Guidobaldo II della Rovere

Historical Context: Guidobaldo II della Rovere's reign (1538-1574) marked a period of cultural flourishing and political consolidation for the Duchy of Urbino within the complex tapestry of 16th-century Italian states. As a prominent patron of arts and letters, Guidobaldo maintained Urbino's legacy as a center of Renaissance humanism, despite persistent pressures from larger regional powers. The 4 Bologninos denomination served as a practical unit for daily commerce, reflecting the Duchy's economic stability under his rule and the local currency system. This period was crucial for the della Rovere dynasty's continued influence.

Artistry: The artistry of this 4 Bologninos coin reflects the High Renaissance style prevalent in central Italy. While the specific engraver remains largely unrecorded for such denominations, the design typically features a finely rendered bust of Guidobaldo II on the obverse, often facing right, showcasing contemporary portraiture. The reverse invariably displays the della Rovere ducal arms, surmounted by a coronet, with intricate heraldic details signifying the family's sovereignty and prestige within the Italian peninsula. The compact 24mm diameter necessitated precise, yet bold, design elements.

Technical/Grading: As a hammered silver coin, the 4 Bologninos exhibits characteristics typical of 16th-century minting. Key high-points for assessing wear include the highest relief of the Duke's hair and facial features on the obverse, and the coronet and central elements of the della Rovere shield on the reverse. Strike quality can vary significantly, with some examples showing strong central details but weaker legends or peripheral elements due to uneven striking pressure. Flan irregularities, minor planchet flaws, and occasional off-center strikes are also common for this issue.