Catalog
| Issuer | Liechtenstein |
|---|---|
| Year | 1728-1729 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1/2 Thaler |
| Currency | Thaler (1728-1868) |
| Composition | Silver (.833) |
| Weight | 14.04 g |
| Diameter | 34 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#1 |
| Obverse description | Mantled bust of Josef Johann Adam facing right. Lettering around. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
IOS·IO·AD·D·G·S·R·I·PR·& GUB·DOM·DE LIECHTENSTEIN· (Translation: Latin: Ioseph Iohann Adam Dei Gratia Sacri Romani Imperii Princeps & Gubernator Domus De Liechtenstein.) |
| Reverse description | Crowned, mantled Coat of Arms in Order chain. Lettering with date around. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | OPP:& CARN:DUX·C·RITB:GRAN:HISP:P:CLAS:S·C·M·INT·CONS:1728 |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1728 - Approximate mintage - 600 1729 - Approximate mintage - 400 |
| Numisquare ID | 4812807050 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This 1/2 Thaler, issued 1728-1729, is a pivotal numismatic artifact from the Principality of Liechtenstein under Prince Josef Johann Adam. Reigning 1712-1732, Josef Johann Adam was instrumental in establishing Liechtenstein's sovereignty, culminating in 1719 with Imperial immediacy and the unification of Schellenberg and Vaduz. This coinage, designated KM#1, marks an early, significant expression of Liechtenstein's solidified political and economic autonomy within the Holy Roman Empire.
Artistry: The design of this 1/2 Thaler exemplifies the late Baroque style prevalent in Central European princely coinage. While the specific engraver is unrecorded, the master die-cutter imbued the coin with characteristic grandeur. The obverse typically features a dignified, draped, armored bust of Prince Josef Johann Adam, often facing right, encircled by his extensive titulature. The reverse proudly displays the elaborate armorial bearings of the House of Liechtenstein, intricately detailed and surmounted by a princely crown, signifying the principality's noble lineage and sovereign authority.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .833 fine silver, weighing 14.04 grams and measuring 34 millimeters, this 1/2 Thaler is a substantial piece. Key high-points for assessing wear include the highest relief areas of the Prince's hair, ear, and drapery on the obverse. On the reverse, critical areas are the crown surmounting the shield and the intricate details within the armorial quarterings. Due to contemporary striking technology, central weakness or slight planchet irregularities are common, even on well-preserved examples.