Denier Bracteate

Emitent Gotha, City of
Rok 1409-1425
Typ Standard circulation coin
Hodnota 1 Denier
Měna Pfennig
Složení Silver
Hmotnost 0.33 g
Průměr
Tloušťka
Tvar Round (irregular)
Technika Hammered (bracteate)
Orientace
Rytci
V oběhu do
Reference Bonh#1322
Popis líce Two crowns on top of each other. On the edge GOTHA.
Písmo líce
Opis líce
Popis rubu Blank.
Písmo rubu
Opis rubu
Hrana
Mincovna
Náklad ND (1409-1425) - -
ID Numisquare 1034118460
Další informace

Historical Context: This Denier Bracteate, issued by the City of Gotha (1409-1425), exemplifies the decentralized monetary landscape of the Holy Roman Empire. Gotha, a prominent Thuringian city, exercised its Münzrecht amidst declining imperial authority and ascendant regional powers, notably the Wettin dynasty. Bracteates, characteristic of medieval German coinage, were thin, single-sided silver issues, serving as low-denomination regional currency. Their design facilitated frequent recoinage, a key mechanism for seigniorage.

Artistry: The artistry of Bonh#1322 reflects the utilitarian aesthetic of late medieval German regional coinage. Engravers for such anonymous workshop productions are unnamed; the style prioritizes clear legibility of the central motif (e.g., civic emblem, Thuringian lion) over intricate detail. The single-sided, anepigraphic nature of bracteates necessitated bold, schematic designs, conducive to rapid striking and widespread circulation. Signatures are uniformly absent, consistent with period minting practices.

Technical/Grading: Given its 0.33 gg silver specification, this bracteate's extreme thinness makes preservation critical. High-points for Bonh#1322 include the clarity and completeness of the central design, often compromised by weak or off-center strikes. Absence of significant cracks, tears, or folds in the fragile flan is paramount. Retention of the original flan shape, free from severe trimming or damage, also significantly enhances appeal. Surface integrity, without excessive corrosion or hornsilver, is crucial.

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