Catalog
| Issuer | City of Bern |
|---|---|
| Year | 1482-1492 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Dicken = 1/4 Guldiner |
| Currency | Guldiner (1492-1601) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 9.7 g |
| Diameter | 28 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | HMZ 2#163b |
| Obverse description | Eagle above bear within circle. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin (uncial) |
| Obverse lettering | ✠ MONETA ⁕ NO ⁕ BERNENSIS |
| Reverse description | Bust of Saint Vincent of Saragossa within circle. |
| Reverse script | Latin (uncial) |
| Reverse lettering | ✠ SANTVS ⁕ VINCENCIVS |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (1482-1492) - 2-163b - 1492 - 2-163c - |
| Numisquare ID | 1504166440 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: Issued by the City of Bern between 1482-1492, this Dicken reflects a period of prosperity and autonomy for the Swiss city-state. Following Burgundian Wars victories, Bern solidified its Old Swiss Confederacy position, expanding influence and economic power. The Dicken, a substantial silver denomination (9.7 grams, 28 mm), facilitated trade and asserted Bern's sovereign minting rights, underscoring its major regional role.
Artistry: The Dicken's design exemplifies the late Gothic stylistic school prevalent in Swiss minting. While the specific engraver is anonymous, craftsmanship indicates a Bern mint master. The obverse features the Bernese bear rampant within a shield, symbolizing the city's strength. The reverse displays a large, ornate cross, often with smaller cantonal arms in its angles, encircled by "MONETA BERNENSIS," reflecting religious devotion and civic pride.
Technical/Grading: As a product of late 15th-century hammer striking, this Dicken's technical qualities vary. High-points prone to wear include the bear's fur/features, shield details, and the cross's central intersection/decorative elements. Well-struck examples exhibit crisp legends and clear heraldic definition. Lesser strikes often show peripheral weakness or opposing high-relief areas due to uneven pressure. Planchet irregularities are common; original mint luster is exceptionally rare.