Sesino - Alfonso II Late bust

Historical Context: This Sesino, issued between 1590 and 1597, belongs to the final years of Alfonso II d'Este's rule as Duke of Ferrara. Alfonso II was the last independent Duke, and his reign concluded with the devolution of Ferrara to the Papal States in 1598, a pivotal moment in Italian history. As a low-denomination billon coin, the sesino was essential for daily commerce, circulating during a period of significant political uncertainty and economic transition for the Este duchy, reflecting the pragmatic needs of the ducal administration in its twilight.

Artistry: The "late bust" on this sesino likely portrays an aging Alfonso II, a common feature in late Renaissance portraiture, possibly influenced by Mannerist stylistic trends prevalent in Italian courts. While specific engravers for such minor coinage are rarely individually attributed, the design would have conformed to the established courtly aesthetic. The small flan and billon composition necessitated a simplified yet recognizable effigy, typically paired with a basic ducal emblem or an abbreviated inscription on the reverse.

Technical/Grading: For this billon sesino, key high-points on the obverse would include the highest relief areas of the duke's bust, such as the hair, nose, and chin. On the reverse, any central armorial elements or lettering would be critical for assessing strike quality. Due to the billon alloy and small dimensions (0.95g, 17mm), these coins frequently exhibit weak or uneven strikes, off-center flans, and surface granularity. Planchet imperfections and partial strikes are common, often obscuring finer details.