Denier Bracteate - Ulrich VI

Historical Context: This Denier Bracteate, issued by Ulrich VI (1529-1551) for Regenstein, reflects a blend of medieval monetary tradition and early modern politics. Ulrich VI, Count of Regenstein-Blankenburg, governed a minor but sovereign territory within the Holy Roman Empire. This era saw the Reformation and Schmalkaldic War. Issuing low-value coinage underscored the Count's territorial sovereignty and economic autonomy in a fragmented German landscape.

Artistry: The artistry is typical of simplified numismatic output from smaller German states in the early 16th century. No specific engraver is known; the design reflects local minting traditions, likely incorporating late Gothic or early Renaissance heraldic motifs. Bracteates are single-sided, with the design deeply impressed into the thin silver flan. MB#1 typically features the armorial bearings of the Counts of Regenstein, such as a stylized stag or eagle, reflecting the medium's technical limitations and aesthetic conventions.

Technical/Grading: Weighing 0.23 grams and measuring 15 millimeters, this silver bracteate is exceptionally delicate. High-points, like upper armorial elements (e.g., antlers, crown details, shield contours), are often weakly struck or worn due to the coin's thinness and single-die strike. The strike frequently shows unevenness or off-centeredness, causing partial loss of peripheral detail. The flan's inherent fragility means crispness is rare, and minor bends or creases are common.