Denaro Picciolo 1st Type

Historical Context: This Denaro Picciolo, 1st Type, was issued by the commune of Perugia between 1374 and 1376. This period was marked by significant political turmoil in central Italy, as Perugia asserted its independence from Pope Gregory XI's authority, leading into the War of the Eight Saints. The issuance of its own coinage underscored Perugia's economic autonomy and civic pride amidst its struggle against direct Papal control, providing essential currency for daily transactions during a volatile era.

Artistry: Characteristic of late medieval Italian communal coinage, the artistry of this Denaro Picciolo adheres to a utilitarian stylistic school, prioritizing legibility and clear identification. Engravers, whose identities remain anonymous, focused on robust, unrefined designs suitable for small billon flans. Typically, such coins feature a simple cross on one side and a civic emblem, like a stylized "P" for Perugia or the city's griffon, on the other, encircled by a clear, often abbreviated, legend proclaiming the issuing authority.

Technical/Grading: Struck on a small (14mm), light (0.40g) billon flan, the Denaro Picciolo typically exhibits a shallow and often uneven strike. High-points, such as the center of the cross or raised elements of the civic symbol, are usually the first to show wear. Due to the billon alloy, planchets are frequently irregular in shape and susceptible to surface corrosion, obscuring details. A well-centered strike with full, clear legends and minimal wear is considered exceptional for this type, as weak details are common.