Penny / Denier - Albert de Cuyck Huy

Émetteur Liege, Prince-bishopric of
Année 1195-1200
Type Standard circulation coin
Valeur 1 Denier
Devise Denier (975-1274)
Composition Silver
Poids 0.85 g
Diamètre
Épaisseur
Forme Round (irregular)
Technique Hammered
Orientation
Graveur(s)
En circulation jusqu’à
Référence(s) Dengis Liege#401
Description de l’avers Bust of bishop, mitered and facing right, cross to right of bust
Écriture de l’avers
Légende de l’avers (from 9:00) ALB E PS
(Translation: Albert, Bishop)
Description du revers Front of church, cross atop central portion which divides legend
Écriture du revers
Légende du revers H OI
(Translation: Huy)
Tranche
Atelier
Tirage ND (1195-1200) - -
ID Numisquare 1078489240
Informations supplémentaires

Historical Context: The Penny/Denier of Albert de Cuyck Huy (1195-1200) hails from the Prince-bishopric of Liege, a vital ecclesiastical principality within the Holy Roman Empire. Albert’s brief episcopate focused on consolidating episcopal power amidst feudal complexities and urban autonomy. This silver denier served as essential currency, underpinning the bishopric’s economy and symbolizing Albert’s temporal and spiritual authority during evolving medieval governance. Its issuance reflects a continuous need for a stable monetary system.

Artistry: The design of this denier aligns with late 12th-century European coinage, characteristic of the early Romanesque stylistic tradition. Engravers, typically anonymous, prioritized symbolic over naturalistic representation. Common motifs for Liege deniers include a highly stylized bust of the mitred bishop, often facing forward, accompanied by a cross or other ecclesiastical symbols. Legends, frequently abbreviated, would name Albertus and the mint city, Leodii, rendered in Lombardic script, often crudely executed.

Technical/Grading: Weighing 0.85 grams of silver, this denier exhibits traits common to medieval hammer-struck coinage. High-points for grading include the bishop's miter, central cross elements, and prominent lettering, typically the first areas to show wear. Technical strike qualities vary; expect irregular flans, potential off-centering, and inconsistent strike pressure leading to areas of flatness or weak detail. Die wear and occasional double striking are also frequently observed, impacting overall preservation.

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