Picciolo - Guidantonio of Montefeltro Gubbio, saint

Historical Context: This Picciolo was issued by Guidantonio of Montefeltro, Lord of Urbino, during his tenure from 1404 to 1442, preceding his elevation to Duke. Minted in Gubbio, it reflects the expanding influence of the Montefeltro dynasty in the Marches region of central Italy. This era was characterized by political maneuvering among various Italian city-states and nascent Renaissance cultural developments. The Picciolo, a small billon denomination, served local commerce and daily transactions, bearing the effigy or symbol of a saint, a common devotional element on medieval coinage.

Artistry: The engraver of this modest billon issue remains anonymous, typical for the period's minor coinage. Stylistically, the coin likely adheres to a provincial late-Gothic tradition, rather than the emerging Renaissance humanism. The design, featuring a saint (as implied by the coin's description), would typically depict a simplified bust or standing figure on the obverse, often accompanied by the ruler's monogram or a simple cross on the reverse. The small module (15mm) and billon composition necessitated robust, albeit often crude, die engraving.

Technical/Grading: Key high-points for assessing wear on this Picciolo would include the saint's facial features, any lettering, and the central elements of the reverse design, such as a cross or shield. Technically, strikes on billon coinage of this period frequently exhibit weaknesses, particularly in the peripheries, due to uneven planchet preparation and striking pressure. Off-center strikes, partial legends, and planchet flaws are common, impacting overall eye appeal and the clarity of finer details. A well-centered strike with full legends and a clear depiction of the saint would be highly prized.