Muraiola of 2 Baiocchi - Clement XI

Historical Context: Clement XI (Giovanni Francesco Albani, Pope 1700-1721) governed the Papal States during geopolitical and economic strain, notably the War of the Spanish Succession. Ferrara, a key Papal city, required stable currency for daily commerce. The Muraiola of 2 Baiocchi, a low-denomination billon coin, addressed this need, facilitating everyday transactions and reflecting the practical monetary requirements of the early 18th century amidst broader financial challenges.

Artistry: The Muraiola’s design adheres to late Baroque stylistic trends common in early 18th-century Italian numismatics, adapted for a utilitarian billon issue. Specific engravers for such common denominations are rarely recorded, with Ferrara mint artisans executing the work. The obverse displays Clement XI’s Papal arms, featuring the tiara and crossed keys. The reverse presents the denomination, mintmark, and date, following a functional aesthetic suitable for a widely circulated, low-value coin.

Technical/Grading: Struck in billon (19.5mm, 1.3g), this Muraiola frequently exhibits technical limitations. High-points for evaluation include the Papal tiara, keys, and shield details on the obverse. Due to the alloy and striking methods, examples often show weak strikes, especially at edges, and inherent planchet imperfections. A premium specimen would feature sharp legends, clear central motifs, and minimal wear, indicating superior preservation for this heavily circulated denomination.