1/2 Krone - George V

Hannover's half krone gold coinage occupied an awkward political moment: the kingdom had joined the German Customs Union but retained its own currency, minting these pieces as the Austro-Prussian rivalry over German unification moved toward its inevitable conclusion. When Prussia defeated Austria at Königgrätz in July 1866, Hannover — which had sided with Austria — was annexed outright within weeks. George V was deposed, the mint at Hannover ceased royal production, and this series ended not by monetary reform but by conquest.