Denier Bracteate

Historical Context: This Denier Bracteate originates from the City of Stargard, a prominent Hanseatic city in Pomerania during the High Middle Ages, likely the 13th or 14th century. As a significant trading hub, Stargard exercised its privilege of minting coinage, reflecting its growing economic autonomy and civic authority rather than a singular ducal ruler. Bracteates, characterized by their single-sided design, were the dominant coinage type in Central Europe, facilitating regional commerce and often subject to annual renovatio monetae, a system of periodic coin renewal and exchange.

Artistry: While the specific engraver remains anonymous, typical for medieval civic issues, the coin exemplifies the distinctive Central European bracteate style. Designs often feature symbols pertinent to the issuing authority, such as civic emblems, ecclesiastical figures, or architectural motifs. The single-sided nature allowed for a relatively high-relief impression, creating a bold, albeit sometimes crude, visual statement. The artistry prioritizes symbolic representation over intricate detail, a hallmark of the era's numismatic design.

Technical/Grading: Weighing a mere 0.33 grams of silver, this bracteate is notably thin, making it susceptible to damage like creasing, cracking, and edge irregularities. Key high-points, typically the central elements of the design, are frequently weakly struck or prone to wear. The strike quality can vary considerably, often resulting in off-center impressions or incomplete designs due to the manual striking process and irregular flans. A well-preserved example would exhibit a full, clear strike with minimal flan damage and good definition of the central motif.