Denier - Janus / John II Anonymous

Historical Context: This Denier, attributed to the reign of John II of Cyprus (1432-1458), represents the late period of the Lusignan Kingdom. During this era, Cyprus, a crucial Latin outpost in the Eastern Mediterranean, faced increasing geopolitical pressures, including the rising Ottoman threat and internal challenges. These anonymous billon issues served as vital small change, underpinning the daily economy of a kingdom struggling to maintain its independence and strategic relevance.

Artistry: The coin's design, identified as "Janus / John II Anonymous," reflects the prevailing medieval numismatic style of the Lusignan period, characterized by its functional yet often simplified execution. Engravers, whose identities remain anonymous, typically produced dies with a somewhat crude but distinctive aesthetic. The "Janus" descriptor likely refers to a stylized royal bust, common on small denomination billon issues, often paired with a cross or heraldic device on the reverse.

Technical/Grading: Struck in billon, a low-silver alloy, this Denier exhibits typical technical characteristics for its period and denomination. High-points susceptible to wear would include the most raised features of the stylized bust, such as the nose or crown, and the central elements of any cross or legend. Due to the small flan size (14.75mm) and low weight (0.59g), strikes are frequently weak, off-center, or irregular, leading to incomplete legends or partially flattened design elements. Flan imperfections, reflecting rudimentary minting processes, are also common.