Vierer - Adrian V

Historical Context: The Vierer of 1685 was issued under Adrian V von Riedmatten, Bishop of Sion (1672-1701), an important ecclesiastical prince within the Valais region. During his episcopate, the Bishopric of Sion maintained its semi-autonomous status, navigating complex relationships with the Old Swiss Confederacy and surrounding powers. This low-denomination billon coinage was essential for local commerce and served as a tangible symbol of the bishop's temporal sovereignty over the region, reflecting the economic necessities of the late 17th century.

Artistry: For small-denomination billon issues like the Vierer, specific engraver attribution is rare. The design adheres to a simplified late Renaissance or early Baroque style, characteristic of regional Swiss mints. The obverse typically features the bishop's mitre and crozier, often flanking a small shield bearing his personal arms or those of the Bishopric, encircled by his titulature. The reverse commonly displays a cross, sometimes with the date or denomination numeral, reflecting both spiritual authority and the coin's practical function.

Technical/Grading: Given its billon composition, diminutive size (0.5g, 16mm), and period of striking, the Vierer often exhibits characteristic production flaws. High-points susceptible to wear include the central details of the mitre, crozier, and shield on the obverse, and the cross arms on the reverse. Strikes are frequently weak, especially at the legends and peripheries, and off-center examples are common. The flans are typically irregular, and the low-grade silver alloy often presents with toning, corrosion, or surface irregularities, making well-preserved examples scarce.