1 Dreiling - Albert VII
| Issuer | Mecklenburg, Principality of |
|---|---|
| Year | 1537 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Dreiling = 3 Pfennig (1⁄128) |
| Currency | Thaler (1348-1700) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | |
| Diameter | |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | MB#81, Kunzel#88 A/h |
| Obverse description | Facing steer`s head in circle. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | G. ALB. G. DVX. B. ME(G). H. AP(O). |
| Reverse description | Arm of Stargard in circle, mintmaster`s symbol at beginning of legend, date at end. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | MONETA. NOVA. WIT(T)(E)(N)(B)(O). |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (1537) - - 1537 - (15)37 - |
| Numisquare ID | 1137394830 |
| Additional information |
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Historical Context: This 1537 Dreiling was issued under Albert VII, Duke of Mecklenburg, during a period of significant religious and political upheaval in the Holy Roman Empire. As a co-ruler, Albert navigated the complex dynamics of the Reformation, with his principality gradually embracing Lutheranism. The Dreiling, a small denomination, served as essential small change for daily commerce within Mecklenburg, reflecting the economic autonomy and practical needs of a regional German state asserting its sovereignty.
Artistry: The artistry of this Dreiling, likely executed by an anonymous mint master, embodies the pragmatic aesthetic of early German Renaissance numismatics on a small scale. While lacking intricate detail, the design typically features a simplified ducal bust or the arms of Mecklenburg on the obverse, encircled by Albert VII's titles. The reverse would display the denomination, date, and often a cross or regional emblem. The style is functional, prioritizing legibility and symbolic representation, characteristic of workhorse coinage from this era.
Technical/Grading: For a silver Dreiling of this period, technical strike quality can vary considerably. High-points for wear or strike weakness would typically include the highest relief areas, such as the ducal crown or the uppermost elements of the Mecklenburg shield, as well as the outer edges of the legends. Expect potential planchet irregularities, including minor laminations or an uneven flan. Centering may not be perfect, and some areas of the design, particularly finer details in the legend or heraldry, might show softness from an incomplete strike.