Dicken

Émetteur City of Bern
Année 1482-1492
Type Standard circulation coin
Valeur 1 Dicken = 1/4 Guldiner
Devise Guldiner (1492-1601)
Composition Silver
Poids 9.7 g
Diamètre 28 mm
Épaisseur
Forme Round (irregular)
Technique Hammered
Orientation
Graveur(s)
En circulation jusqu’à
Référence(s) HMZ 2#163b
Description de l’avers Eagle above bear within circle.
Écriture de l’avers Latin (uncial)
Légende de l’avers ✠ MONETA ⁕ NO ⁕ BERNENSIS
Description du revers Bust of Saint Vincent of Saragossa within circle.
Écriture du revers Latin (uncial)
Légende du revers ✠ SANTVS ⁕ VINCENCIVS
Tranche
Atelier
Tirage ND (1482-1492) - 2-163b -
1492 - 2-163c -
ID Numisquare 1504166440
Informations supplémentaires

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.

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