Denga - Vladimir Andreevich

Historical Context: This Denga, issued by the Principality of Serpukhov-Borovsk between 1400 and 1406, belongs to the reign of Vladimir Andreevich, often known as Vladimir the Bold. A prominent figure of late 14th and early 15th century Rus', Vladimir was a cousin and key ally of Dmitry Donskoy, participating notably in the Battle of Kulikovo. His continued right to mint coinage underscores the complex political landscape, where regional principalities maintained autonomy despite Moscow's growing influence and the Golden Horde's receding shadow.

Artistry: The engraver of this Denga remains anonymous, typical for medieval Russian coinage. Stylistically, it aligns with the nascent Muscovite numismatic tradition, characterized by somewhat rudimentary yet robust designs. Denga of this period commonly featured simplified depictions of a rider with a sword or an axe, or a standing figure, alongside Cyrillic inscriptions identifying the prince and his domain. The aesthetic emphasizes symbolic authority over intricate detail, reflecting the practicalities of hammered production for this small silver denomination.

Technical/Grading: As a hammered silver issue, the Denga of Vladimir Andreevich typically exhibits variability in strike quality. High-points, such as a rider's head or the upper portions of Cyrillic letters, are often susceptible to weak striking or early wear. Technical strike qualities frequently include off-center strikes, planchet irregularities, and occasional double striking, which are characteristic of the period's minting methods. A well-centered strike with clear legends and a discernible central motif is highly desirable for this reference, HP II#3060Н.