Pfennig - Ulrich von Pfirt

Historical Context: The Pfennig of Ulrich von Pfirt, minted between 1249 and 1262, emerges from a turbulent period in the Holy Roman Empire, specifically the High Middle Ages and the onset of the Interregnum. Ulrich III, Count of Pfirt, was a significant regional magnate in Upper Alsace, strategically positioned. The issuance of this silver Pfennig underscores the Count's exercise of seigniorial minting rights, a crucial demonstration of his feudal authority and economic sovereignty within his territories, amidst the broader fragmentation of imperial power.

Artistry: The engraver of this Pfennig remains anonymous, typical for medieval coinage of this period. Stylistically, the coin reflects the rudimentary yet functional aesthetic prevalent in 13th-century Germanic mints, bridging late Romanesque and early Gothic influences. Designs on such small denominations often featured highly stylized elements, such as a simple cross, a rudimentary bust representing the ruler, or an heraldic device, executed with utilitarian simplicity rather than intricate detail, reflecting the coin's primary function as a circulating medium.

Technical/Grading: Weighing a mere 0.35 grams of silver, this Pfennig exemplifies the small, often irregular fabric of medieval coinage. High-points, typically the central cross or effigy, would exhibit shallow relief due to the thin flan and inherent limitations of hammer striking. Technical strike qualities are generally characterized by a weak, uneven impression, often leading to incomplete legends or design elements. Planchet irregularities, such as clipped edges or an oval shape, are common, reflecting the rudimentary minting technology of the era.