Picciolo - Guidantonio of Montefeltro

Historical Context: Guidantonio of Montefeltro's early rule (1404-1412) saw him consolidate power in the Duchy of Urbino, navigating complex central Italian politics. This Picciolo, a low-denomination billon coin, served as vital local currency, asserting the Montefeltro family's sovereign right to coinage and facilitating daily transactions within the Duchy. Its issuance underscores the economic realities and governmental authority of the period.

Artistry: The engraver, as is common for early 15th-century billon, remains anonymous. The stylistic school reflects late Gothic Italian numismatic trends, favoring simplified, functional designs over elaborate artistry. Given its small module and billon composition, the coin's design would likely feature basic heraldic elements such as a central cross and possibly Guidantonio's monogram or a stylized Montefeltro eagle, prioritizing legibility for everyday use.

Technical/Grading: Billon coinage of this era typically exhibits variable metal quality and strike consistency. High-points would be the central motifs, like the intersection of a cross or the apex of a monogram. Technical strike qualities often include irregular flans, weak strikes, and potential off-centering, especially given the coin's minute 0.6 gg weight. The absence of a specific CNI XIII reference number may indicate this particular variety is unlisted or exceedingly rare, highlighting documentation challenges for regional billon issues.