1 Ferding - Magnus Arensburg

Uitgever Ösel-Wiek, Bishopric of
Jaar 1564-1565
Type Standard circulation coin
Waarde 1 Ferding = 9 Schillings
Valuta Schilling (1560-1568)
Samenstelling Silver
Gewicht 2.71 g
Diameter 24 mm
Dikte
Vorm Round (irregular)
Techniek
Oriëntatie Variable alignment ↺
Graveur(s)
In omloop tot
Referentie(s) Haljak II#715, Fed#96, Neum#410
Beschrijving voorzijde Bust facing right surrounded by legend.
Schrift voorzijde Latin
Opschrift voorzijde MA · D · G · EP · OSI · C · E · RE
(Translation: Magnus Dei Gratia Episcopus Osiliensis Couroniae (Wiciensis) et Revaliensis (Heres Norvegiae) Magnus, with God`s grace, Bishop of Ösel, Courland, and Reval (Heir of Norway))
Beschrijving keerzijde Eagle surrounded by legend.
Schrift keerzijde Latin
Opschrift keerzijde MO · N · ARENSBORCH · 65 ·
(Translation: Moneta Nova Arensburg New coin of Arensburg)
Rand Smooth.
Muntplaats
Oplage ND (1564) - -
1564 - (15)64; Date on obverse -
1564 - (15)64; Date on reverse -
1565 - (15)65 -
Numisquare-ID 2951704460
Aanvullende informatie

Historical Context: This 1 Ferding coin, issued 1564-1565, marks a critical juncture in Livonian history under Magnus, Duke of Holstein. Though nominally Bishop of Ösel-Wiek, Magnus was a secular ruler appointed by Denmark, reflecting its strategic interests during the tumultuous Livonian War (1558-1583). His coinage signals the final dissolution of the independent Bishopric and the assertion of Danish influence, amidst intense geopolitical struggle for Baltic control between Sweden, Poland-Lithuania, Russia, and Denmark.

Artistry: The engraver of this regional wartime issue remains unrecorded. Stylistically, the coin embodies a late Northern Renaissance aesthetic, often characterized by pragmatic simplicity. The obverse typically features Magnus's ducal arms, symbolizing his temporal authority over traditional ecclesiastical imagery. The reverse displays the Bishopric's arms or a cross, accompanied by the denomination "1 FERDING" and date, reflecting local monetary standards during a period of widespread currency flux.

Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, this 24mm, 2.71g coin's high-points for preservation include the central elements of the obverse shield or any depiction of Magnus's regalia. On the reverse, the central motif of the territorial arms or cross. Technical strike quality often varies, exhibiting weakness in peripheral legends or lower relief areas due to hurried wartime production. Flan irregularities and planchet imperfections are common, though well-centered strikes with full legends are highly prized.

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