Presentation Coin of Maximilian I

Ulrich Ursentaler

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Presentation coins were usually designed by court artists and given by princes as rewards or political gifts, or disseminated as propaganda. This coin was struck to commemorate the coronation of Maximilian I (1459–1519) as Holy Roman Emperor in 1508, reinforcing the emperor's dynastic claims to power through heraldry, inscriptions, and his depiction in full armor astride a fully barded horse, all elements elaborately decorated. The bard is of a type that appears to have been an invention and specialty of one of Maximilian's court armorers, Lorenz Helmschmid (rec. 1467–1515/16) of Augsburg. Its most notable feature is the armor for the horse's legs, protecting each with a system of articulated plates down to the fetlock. Such an extensive bard was in all likelihood only used for ceremonial purposes. Reflecting artistic sophistication, wealth, and power, it ideally complements the purpose of this presentation coin. The present example belongs to a second edition, struck at Antwerp in 1517.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The principal goals of the Arms and Armor Department are to collect, preserve, research, publish, and exhibit distinguished examples representing the art of the armorer, swordsmith, and gunmaker. Arms and armor have been a vital part of virtually all cultures for thousands of years, pivotal not only in conquest and defense, but also in court pageantry and ceremonial events. Throughout time the best armor and weapons have represented the highest artistic and technical capabilities of the society and period in which they were made, forming a unique aspect of both art history and material culture.

Metropolitan Museum of Art