Grosso of 4 denaros - In name of Frederick

Historical Context:This Bergamo Grosso (1236-1250) is pivotal from Frederick II Hohenstaufen's reign. Bergamo, a key Lombard imperial city, balanced Ghibelline loyalty with communal autonomy. The "in name of Frederick" legend asserts imperial suzerainty over northern Italian mints, even as Bergamo issued new, heavier silver denominations. This period of intense conflict with the Lombard League makes such imperial acknowledgement a nuanced political statement, reflecting pragmatic power balance and urban economy demanding substantial currency.

Artistry:The engraver for this Bergamo Grosso is anonymous, typical for 13th-century communal mints. Stylistically, it bridges Romanesque rigidity and early Gothic influences, with evident local workshop aesthetics. Iconography features S. Alessandro, often with halo and lance, on one side, and a cross or imperial eagle on the reverse, surrounded by legends. Execution, though robust, favors stylized representation and symbolic clarity, reflecting practical civic mint demands.

Technical/Grading:For optimal grading, prioritize legibility of obverse/reverse legends, especially "FREDERICUS" and "BERGOMI," often weakly struck or off-center. High points of relief—saint's head/halo or eagle's breast/wings—are highly susceptible to wear, obscuring critical details. Clarity of central devices, including attributes or definition, is paramount. Irregular flans and minor clipping are common and tolerated; severe defects or clipping detrimentally affect evaluation.