Catalog
| Issuer | Saxe-Coburg-Eisenach, Duchy of |
|---|---|
| Year | 1624-1629 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1/2 Thaler |
| Currency | Thaler (1572-1638) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | |
| Diameter | |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#96, Grasser#203b |
| Obverse description | 1/2-length figure of Johann Casimir, head divides FRIED - ERNEHRT, 6 small shields of arms. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | D G - IO - CAS(IM) (-) ET. IO(.)(H) (-) ERN(ES) - FR. DV(C)(X) - SAX. IV. (- CL. ET. M) |
| Reverse description | 1/2-length figure of Johann Ernst II to left divides. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | VNFRIED - VERZEHRT. (CLI. ET. MON.) LAN(TG). THV. MAR(G). MIS. COM. MAR. ET. RA(V). D(O). IN. R(A)(V). |
| Edge | |
| Mint |
WA Saalfeld, Germany |
| Mintage |
1624 WA - - 1625 WA - - 1626 WA - - 1627 WA - - 1629 WA - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1044128540 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This 1/2 Thaler was issued during the joint reign of Duke John Casimir (Saxe-Coburg) and Duke John Ernest (Saxe-Eisenach). The period 1624-1629 falls squarely within the devastating Thirty Years' War, a conflict profoundly impacting the Holy Roman Empire and its German states. Coinage production reflected the era's challenges, as rulers sought to assert authority and economic solvency amidst widespread conflict. This coin is a tangible link to a turbulent epoch for Saxe-Coburg-Eisenach.
Artistry: While no specific engraver is attributed, this coin exemplifies the prevailing German early Baroque style. The obverse typically features conjoined or individual busts of John Casimir and John Ernest, rendered with idealized realism. Their attire and regalia reflect contemporary ducal fashion. The reverse commonly displays the elaborate ducal arms of Saxe-Coburg-Eisenach, quartered with dynastic claims and surmounted by a ducal crown. Latin legends proclaim the rulers' titles and often a dynastic motto.
Technical/Grading: Key high-points for assessing wear include the rulers' hair, cheekbones, and collar details on the obverse. On the reverse, wear manifests first on the crowns surmounting the shields and finer elements within the quartered ducal arms. Due to hammer-striking methods, examples often exhibit minor planchet irregularities, slight off-centering, or weaker strike, especially near the rims. A well-centered strike with full detail on portraits and arms is highly desirable.