Imperial Denaro - In name of Frederick II

Emisor Cremona, City of
Año 1254-1300
Tipo Standard circulation coin
Valor Denaro (1⁄240)
Moneda Lira
Composición
Peso 0.94 g
Diámetro 18 mm
Grosor
Forma Round (irregular)
Técnica Hammered
Orientación Coin alignment ↑↓
Grabador(es)
En circulación hasta
Referencia(s) CNI IV#26, MEC XII#469
Descripción del anverso Lettering in three lines, in form of cross, around a central annulet, within inner cabled circle.
Escritura del anverso Latin
Leyenda del anverso FREDERICVS (S sideways) Ω P · R I
(Translation: Emperor Frederick)
Descripción del reverso Cross pattée, with star in first and second quarters within cabled circle.
Escritura del reverso Latin
Leyenda del reverso ✠ • CREMONA •
Canto
Casa de moneda
Tirada ND (1254-1300) - -
ID de Numisquare 1376587830
Información adicional

Historical Context: This Imperial Denaro, issued by Cremona between 1254 and 1300, is a poignant testament to Frederick II Hohenstaufen's enduring legacy, despite his death in 1250. Cremona, a staunch Ghibelline commune, continued striking coinage in the deceased emperor's name, symbolizing unwavering loyalty to the imperial cause during the tumultuous post-Hohenstaufen interregnum. These issues underscore Cremona's political alignment and assertion of civic autonomy under nominal imperial suzerainty, even as imperial power waned in Italy.

Artistry: The design, typical of early medieval communal coinage, prioritizes legibility and symbolic clarity. While specific engravers are unknown, local mint masters executed the dies. The stylistic school reflects a transition from Romanesque simplicity to nascent Gothic forms, characterized by schematic renderings. Common motifs for such issues include a prominent cross and an imperial eagle or monogram, often accompanied by the city's name and the emperor's titulature, such as 'FRIDERICVS' or 'IMPERATOR', asserting imperial authority.

Technical/Grading: Struck on an 18mm flan weighing 0.94 grams, this hammered coin typically exhibits characteristics of its production method. High-points susceptible to wear include the central elements of any cross, the head and wingtips of an eagle, and the raised lettering. Technical strike qualities often vary, showing evidence of off-center strikes, irregular planchet shapes, and uneven pressure from the dies, which can result in areas of flatness or double striking. Preservation of legend and central devices is key for optimal grading.

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