Denier Provencal Coronat - Charles I of Anjou

Historical Context: This Denier Provencal Coronat, issued between 1277 and 1285, is a tangible testament to the formidable authority of Charles I of Anjou, Count of Provence. A younger brother of King Louis IX of France, Charles I was a dominant figure in 13th-century European politics, simultaneously King of Sicily, Naples, and Jerusalem. Provence served as a vital economic and strategic base for his vast Angevin empire, fueling his ambitious expansionist policies across the Mediterranean. The coin’s issuance reflects his sovereign power in the county during a period of significant political maneuvering and military campaigns, notably preceding the War of the Sicilian Vespers.

Artistry: The artistry of this denier adheres to the established conventions of late 13th-century medieval coinage. Engravers, whose names are typically unrecorded for issues of this type, focused on symbolic representation rather than realistic portrayal. The "Coronat" designation signifies a prominent crown, likely adorning a stylized bust or a central monogram, serving as a clear visual affirmation of Charles I’s comital authority. The reverse typically features a simple, yet robust, cross, often a cross pattee, encircled by a Latin legend. The design emphasizes legibility and the assertion of power, characteristic of the era's functional numismatic art.

Technical/Grading: Struck in billon, with a weight of 0.9 grams and a diameter of 18 millimeters, this hammered denier exhibits technical qualities typical of its period. High points prone to wear include the crown's specific details, any facial features on the bust, and the central elements of the cross design. Due to the billon alloy and the hammering process, strikes often present with some softness, and planchets can be irregular in shape and thickness. Desirable examples will show a clear, centered strike, well-defined legends, and a stable, attractive patina, free from significant corrosion or damage, which is crucial for billon issues.