Denier Bracteate

Historical Context: Issued by the City of Einbeck between 1501 and 1510, this Denier Bracteate reflects the minting practices of a prominent Hanseatic city within the Holy Roman Empire. While larger, double-sided coinage was gaining prominence, Einbeck, under the nominal authority of Emperor Maximilian I, maintained the production of these traditional, single-sided silver pieces, likely for local commerce. Their continued circulation signifies regional economic autonomy and adherence to established monetary systems in certain areas of northern Germany.

Artistry: The engraver of this bracteate remains anonymous, a common circumstance for coinage of this period and type. Stylistically, the design adheres to the simplified, often heraldic motifs characteristic of bracteates, which by their nature allow for limited intricate detail. The obverse typically features a central emblematic device pertinent to Einbeck, such as a lion or the city's monogram, rendered in a late Gothic idiom. The single-die strike impresses the design onto a thin flan, creating a reverse that is an incuse mirror image.

Technical/Grading: Weighing a mere 0.30 grams of silver, this extremely thin coin (indicated by "mm" for millimeter thickness) is inherently delicate. High-points for wear or strike quality would typically be the central elements of the design, such as a lion's head or shield details. Due to the manufacturing process of striking a single die onto a very thin planchet, examples often exhibit weak or uneven strikes, off-centering, and flan irregularities. Preservation of full design elements and an intact, uncreased flan are key indicators for higher technical grade.