Catalog
| Issuer | Catalonia, Principality of |
|---|---|
| Year | 1479-1516 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Groat (3⁄40) |
| Currency | Libra |
| Composition | Silver (.958) |
| Weight | 3.2 g |
| Diameter | 23 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Cru#1142 |
| Obverse description | Crowned bust left. Legend around, between beaded circles. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
FERDINANDUS:D:G:R: (Translation: Ferdinand king by the grace of God) |
| Reverse description | Long cross divides legend, annulet in first and fourth angles, three bezants in second and third angles. Legend around, between beaded circles. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
CIUITAS BARCKNONA (Translation: City of Barcelona) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (1479-1516) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1009977270 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This silver groat was issued from Catalonia during the reign of Ferdinand II of Aragon (1479-1516). Ferdinand, with Isabella I, unified the Crowns of Aragon and Castile, foundational to modern Spain. This coin reflects Catalonia's enduring economic autonomy and minting traditions within the Aragonese realm, even amidst consolidating royal power. Its era saw the completion of the Reconquista and the dawn of Spain's overseas exploration, marking a transformative period.
Artistry: The groat's design reflects late medieval Iberian coinage, showing early Renaissance influences. Engravers are often undocumented, but the stylistic school emphasizes heraldic clarity and royal symbolism. The obverse typically features a crowned bust of Ferdinand II, rendered with a degree of naturalism, surrounded by a legend. The reverse commonly displays a large cross, often with pellets or rings in the angles, representing the Cross of Aragon or Catalonia, encircled by the mint’s inscription.
Technical/Grading: Struck in high-purity silver (.958), this 3.2-gram, 23-millimeter groat exhibits typical manufacturing qualities. High-points for wear include the king's crown, facial features, and the central elements of the reverse cross. Manual striking often resulted in varying centering, planchet irregularity, and strike pressure, leading