There's a feeling of holding a coin that has the hallmarks of a history behind it. In the struggle for power is often synonymous with the concentration of wealth. The Holy Roman empire was rife in conflict, literally back-stabbing, and barley held together. With the Invasion of the Ottomans, they were one of the few things they somewhat cohesive upon. As Voltaire is quoted: "The Holy Roman Empire was neither Holy, Roman nor even an empire." It's fascinating as one follows the economic history. And the Medici Bank did it's share of debasing money.