Pfennig - Ludwig von Froburg

Historical Context: This Pfennig was issued by the City of Zofingen under Ludwig von Froburg, a powerful count ruling from 1281-1307. This era in the Aargau region, part of the Holy Roman Empire, saw local feudal lords assert significant influence. Minting rights underscored their authority over Zofingen, a strategically important town. This coinage reflects a key period of local autonomy before Zofingen's later alignment with the Habsburgs and eventual incorporation into the Swiss Confederacy.

Artistry: The engraver of this late 13th-century Pfennig remains anonymous, typical for the period. It exemplifies the regional medieval stylistic school, characterized by a simplified, almost abstract design dictated by small flan size and technical limitations. Designs typically feature a central cross, often a cross potent, on one side. The reverse commonly displays a highly stylized head, a civic emblem, or an armorial device representing the Froburgs or Zofingen's municipal arms.

Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this Pfennig has a remarkably light 0.24 grams and a broad 19-millimeter diameter, making it exceptionally thin. High-points for preservation and grading are typically the central elements of the design, such as cross arms or facial features. Due to its delicate nature, these coins frequently exhibit technical strike qualities like irregular flan shapes, off-center strikes, and weak or partial impressions, common for the type. Wear often manifests rapidly across the surface.