1/2 Stüber - Frederick II

Historical Context: This 1/2 Stüber, dated 1781-1782, originates from East Frisia under Prussian rule. Issued by Frederick II, "the Great," it reflects his enlightened absolutist reign, a period of significant Prussian expansion and administrative consolidation. Following East Frisia's annexation in 1744, Prussia maintained local currency systems to ensure economic stability and familiarity. This small denomination served daily transactions, symbolizing Prussian sovereignty while integrating seamlessly into the regional economy.

Artistry: The engraver for this common billon issue is typically anonymous, characteristic of minor coinage from the late 18th century. Stylistically, it adheres to the functional late Baroque or early Neoclassical trends of German states. The obverse likely features Frederick II's crowned monogram (FR) or a Prussian eagle, signifying royal authority. The reverse typically displays the "1/2 STÜBER" denomination and date, prioritizing clear legibility and practical utility over intricate artistic embellishment.

Technical/Grading: As a billon coin weighing 0.71 grams, this 1/2 Stüber frequently presents production challenges. High-points prone to wear include the crown, monogram elements, and the tops of letters. Technical strike quality is often inconsistent; planchets can be irregular or off-center, and details, particularly on the periphery, may be weakly struck. The billon alloy is susceptible to environmental degradation, making well-preserved examples with sharp details and minimal surface corrosion highly sought after.