Catalog
| Issuer | Italy, Kingdom of |
|---|---|
| Year | 1014-1024 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Denier (1⁄240) |
| Currency | Pound (781-1024) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 0.46 g |
| Diameter | |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | MEC XII#32, CNI VI#1 (p.258) |
| Obverse description | Cross in a beaded circle, legend around. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
+INPERATOR (Translation: Emperor.) |
| Reverse description | Cross in a beaded circle, legend around. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
+HAOAEV (Translation: Verona.) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (1014-1024) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 7049362730 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This denier represents the imperial authority of Henry II, the final Ottonian Holy Roman Emperor, during his 1014-1024 reign. Canonized as Saint Henry, his rule focused on consolidating imperial power and church reforms. Verona, a crucial imperial city in northern Italy, was a strategic administrative and economic hub. Coinage from Verona under Henry II signifies direct imperial control and economic activity in Italy, a tangible numismatic link to 11th-century imperial rule.
Artistry: Typical of early medieval coinage, the engraver is anonymous, reflecting local Lombardic or Ottonian stylistic influences. Artistry is schematic and symbolic, prioritizing clear communication over naturalism. The obverse likely features a simplified imperial bust or cross; the reverse typically displays an inscription identifying the emperor (HENRICVS IMP) and mint city (VERONA). The design effectively proclaims imperial sovereignty and minting privilege via direct, unadorned iconography.
Technical/Grading: Struck on a diminutive (0.46 gg) silver flan, this denier often displays features typical of early medieval minting. High-points, such as central elements of any bust/cross and prominent legend letters, are frequently the first to show wear. Technical strike qualities vary; irregular flans, off-center strikes, and uneven pressure are common. Their light weight and delicate nature make these coins susceptible to damage and wear; well-centered, crisp strikes are rare and highly valued for numismatic clarity.