Denier - Amadeus III 2nd type

Historical Context: Amadeus III, Count of Geneva (1349-1367), governed during a complex era of feudal politics in the Savoyard region. This Denier, his second type, issued 1360-1362, asserts the Count's monetary sovereignty amidst powerful neighbors like Savoy. Such billon coinage was vital for local commerce, facilitating daily transactions and underscoring the County's economic autonomy, a crucial symbol of his authority.

Artistry: The artistry aligns with late medieval, Gothic aesthetics common in regional European mints. While the engraver is anonymous, the design reflects the mint master's work, prioritizing clarity and symbolism. The obverse typically features a central cross, embodying religious and territorial significance. The reverse likely displays a stylized monogram of Amadeus (e.g., 'A' or 'AM') or a simplified rendition of the County's arms. The "2nd type" indicates a subtle modification from an earlier issue.

Technical/Grading: Minted in billon (0.66 grams, 15 millimeters), this Denier displays characteristics typical of hammered coinage. High-points prone to wear include the central cross and prominent monogram features. Technical strike quality often varies; expect off-centering, uneven strikes, and irregular flan shapes due to rudimentary production. The billon alloy typically results in a granular surface texture. Grading focuses on the legibility of legends and the definition of central devices.