Denier Parisis - Louis XI 2nd issue, PARISIVS CIVIS FRAnm

Historical Context: Issued in 1476, this Denier Parisis belongs to the second monetary issue of Louis XI (1461-1483), the "Spider King." This era saw the consolidation of royal power in France following the Hundred Years' War. As a common billon denomination, it facilitated daily commerce, underpinning economic recovery. Its legend, "PARISIVS CIVIS FRAnm," uniquely emphasizes the importance of Paris and the burgeoning national identity under royal authority.

Artistry: Specific engravers for such denominations are rarely documented; the design originates from the royal Parisian mint workshop, adhering to the prevailing late Gothic aesthetic. Artistry, though functional, reflects the period's preference for clear heraldic representation. The obverse typically features a stylized cross or royal monogram. The reverse prominently displays the legend "PARISIVS CIVIS FRAnm," a direct statement of urban and national allegiance. Lettering is characteristic of the era, often crude but legible.

Technical/Grading: Struck in billon (.079 silver), this Denier Parisis (1.57 gg, 18 mm) is prone to fabrication inconsistencies. High-points susceptible to wear include the central cross elements, legend edges, and any small royal insignia. Due to rapid production, strikes are frequently off-center, and planchets can be irregular or incompletely filled. Collectors should anticipate varying degrees of flatness, particularly on the legend, and surface degradation common to base metal coinage of the period.