1/2 Thaler - John Albert II

John Albert II ruled Mecklenburg-Güstrow from 1611 until his death in 1636, navigating the duchy through the opening catastrophes of the Thirty Years' War. By 1624, Imperial forces had not yet occupied Mecklenburg directly — that came in 1627 under Wallenstein, who was controversially invested with both Mecklenburg duchies after their dukes were placed under imperial ban for alleged collusion with Denmark. Coins struck in these years before the occupation represent the last issues produced under undisturbed ducal authority for nearly a decade.

Kunzel 445a distinguishes this variety within the half thaler series by die specifics; collectors should verify the precise rendering against Kunzel's plates rather than relying solely on the KM reference.