Catalog
| Issuer | City of Lucerne |
|---|---|
| Year | 1475-1550 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Dicken = 1/4 Thaler |
| Currency | Thaler (1422-1550) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 9.0 g |
| Diameter | 29.0 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Wielandt Luzern#7b , HMZ 2#– , Haas L#123 |
| Obverse description | Coat of arms of Lucerne on square shield split vertically in half; the right half with organic ornaments; the left half hatched. `L` in left field. `V` in right field. Eagle facing left above. Antiqua script. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
MONETA NO LVCERNENS` L V (Translation: Moneta nova Lucernensis. New coin of Lucerne.) |
| Reverse description | Bust of Saint Leodegar facing right, in regalia, wearing embroidered mitre, and holding hand drill on right shoulder. Antiqua script. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
⸰ SANCTVS ❀ LEODIGARVS ⸰ (Translation: Sanctus Leodigarius. Saint Leodegar.) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (1475-1550) - Wielandt# 7d; MONETA ❀ NO ❀ LVCERNENSIS - ND (1475-1550) - Wielandt# 7e; MONETA LVCERNENSIS - ND (1510-1520) - Wielandt# 7b; MONETA NO LVCERNENS` - ND (1510-1520) - Wielandt# 7c; MONETA ❀ NO ❀ LVCERNENS - |
| Numisquare ID | 5891963760 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This Dicken, issued by the City of Lucerne (1475-1550), represents a pivotal era in Swiss numismatics. As a significant silver denomination, its emergence reflects Lucerne's economic growth and increasing autonomy within the Old Swiss Confederacy. Such larger-value coins were crucial for facilitating burgeoning trade, signaling a more sophisticated monetary system. The 'LV' in the fields clearly identifies the issuer; Saint Leodegar, the city's patron, underscores Lucerne's civic and spiritual identity.
Artistry: The design, likely from an anonymous master, exemplifies the transition from late Gothic to early Renaissance aesthetics. The obverse presents a dignified bust of Saint Leodegar facing right, with subtle detailing in his vestments. The reverse features an ornate shield bearing the Lucerne arms, often framed by intricate floral or geometric patterns. The 'LV' monograms are skillfully integrated, showcasing the period's decorative sensibilities and heraldic precision.
Technical/Grading: Struck on a 9.0-gram, 29.0-mm silver flan, this Dicken typically displays characteristics of early hammer striking. High points prone to wear or weak strike include Saint Leodegar's facial features and hair, along with the intricate details of the shield and its surrounding ornamentation. Variations in strike centering and planchet quality are common. A premium example exhibits sharp definition on legends, full detail on the saint's vestments, and crisp heraldry, indicative of a strong die impression and minimal circulation.