Imperial Denaro - In name of Frederick II

Historical Context: The Imperial Denaro of Cremona, issued 1254-1300, is a poignant testament to Frederick II Hohenstaufen's enduring legacy, decades after his death in 1250. Cremona, a staunch Ghibelline city, maintained its loyalty, continuing to strike coinage "in nomine Frederici" as a declaration of political alignment and economic autonomy. This issue reflects complex northern Italian power dynamics, where communes asserted authority while acknowledging broader, often symbolic, imperial suzerainty.

Artistry: The design, typical of mid-13th century Italian communal coinage, exhibits a distinctive medieval aesthetic. Specific engravers are anonymous; the stylistic school leans towards simplified, robust iconography. The obverse likely features a stylized imperial eagle or emperor's bust, while the reverse typically bears a cross or the city's name. The execution, though not refined by later Renaissance standards, conveys a powerful message of civic identity and imperial allegiance.

Technical/Grading: Measuring 18 mm and weighing 0.94 grams, this Denaro generally presents characteristics common to its era. High-points for wear include central devices like the emperor's crown or eagle's head/wings, and cross extremities. Strikes are often irregular, with flans frequently exhibiting slight imperfections or being marginally off-center. Collectors should prioritize examples with clear legends and well-defined central motifs, crucial for assessing technical strike quality and overall grade.