1 Batzen

Historical Context: This 1 Batzen coin, issued by the Canton of St. Gallen between 1807 and 1809, dates to a pivotal period in Swiss history. Following the collapse of the French-imposed Helvetic Republic in 1803, Switzerland was reorganized into a confederation of 19 cantons, including St. Gallen, under Napoleon's Act of Mediation. This era saw cantonal autonomy re-established, including the right to mint coinage, albeit within the broader geopolitical sphere of Napoleonic France. The Batzen served as a crucial fractional currency for daily transactions in the nascent confederation.

Artistry: The artistic execution of this billon Batzen reflects the practical, functional aesthetic common to early 19th-century Swiss cantonal coinage. While specific engravers are typically unrecorded for such fractional issues, the design adheres to a restrained Neoclassical influence. The obverse likely features the iconic bear rampant of St. Gallen, often crowned or haloed, symbolizing the canton's identity. The reverse typically displays the denomination "1 BATZEN" and the date, often encircled by a wreath or simple linear border, emphasizing clarity and legibility.

Technical/Grading: Struck in billon, a low-grade silver alloy, this coin frequently exhibits characteristics inherent to the material. High-points for wear would include the raised elements of the bear's fur or crown on the obverse, and the central digits of the denomination on the reverse. Technical strike quality can vary, with many examples showing softer strikes, particularly in the fields and finer details, due to the billon composition. Planchet quality may also be inconsistent, and corrosion is common. Sharpness of the legends and date are key indicators of preservation.