Denier - Petrus IV

Historical Context: This Denier, issued by the Kingdom of Aragon under Petrus IV (Peter IV, also known as Peter the Ceremonious), dates to his reign from 1336 to 1387. This period was a tumultuous yet significant era for Aragon, marked by ongoing conflicts with Castile, expansion into the Mediterranean, and the devastating impact of the Black Death. As a fundamental denomination, the denier was crucial for daily commerce, its billon composition reflecting the economic pressures and often the debasement trends prevalent across medieval Europe. Peter IV was a strong monarch who consolidated royal power and maintained Aragon's status as a dominant Mediterranean force.

Artistry: The artistic style of this denier is characteristic of Iberian medieval coinage, exhibiting early Gothic influences common for the period. Given its small size (12mm) and billon composition, intricate detail was challenging to achieve, and engravers typically focused on clear, albeit simple, iconography. While specific engravers are rarely known for such common denominations, the design would likely feature a royal monogram or cross on one side, and perhaps the Aragonese bars or a simplified bust on the other, accompanied by abbreviated legends indicating the ruler or mint. The overall aesthetic prioritizes legibility over elaborate artistic expression.

Technical/Grading: Struck on a diminutive 12mm flan weighing 0.9 grams, this billon denier often presents technical challenges. High-points for wear typically include the central devices such as any crown, cross, or royal monogram, and the outer portions of the legends. Due to the minting techniques of the 14th century, examples commonly exhibit irregular flans, weak or off-center strikes, and shallow detail. The legends may be partially incomplete or illegible, and planchet imperfections are frequent. A well-centered strike with clear, full legends and discernible central motifs would be considered exceptional for this type.