1/2 Thaler - Frederick III
| Issuer | Saxe-Gotha-Altenburg, Duchy of |
|---|---|
| Year | 1764 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1/2 Thaler |
| Currency | Thaler (1680-1826) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 14 g |
| Diameter | 35.5 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Steguweit#263, Slg. Merse#3245 |
| Obverse description | Bust facing right surrounded by name and name of the Duchy. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | FRIDER.III.GOTHAN.SAXONVM.DVX. |
| Reverse description | Arms of the Duchy encircled by the Garter with its motto, with lion supporters and crown above, date below, value around left and right. Frederick III, brother of the Princess of Wales Augusta, was made Foreign Knight of the Garter by Georg II in 1741, hence the Garter in his coat of arms. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | XX.EINE // FEINE MARK HONI SOIT QVI MAL Y PENSE 1764 |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1764 - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1448960280 |
| Additional information |
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Historical Context: This 1/2 Thaler, issued in 1764 under Frederick III (1732-1772), Duke of Saxe-Gotha-Altenburg, marks a period of post-Seven Years' War stability. Frederick III's reign focused on internal administration and cultural patronage. As a central German principality, this crucial circulating denomination reflects the Duchy's economic recovery and the Duke's authority, embodying a return to normalcy and monetary stability within the Holy Roman Empire.
Artistry: The coin exemplifies the transitional artistic style of mid-18th century German mints, blending late Baroque grandeur with nascent Neoclassical restraint. The obverse typically presents a dignified, laureate and draped bust of Duke Frederick III, usually facing right, surrounded by his titles. The reverse features the meticulously rendered crowned ducal arms of Saxe-Gotha-Altenburg