1 Groschen

Historical Context: The Strasbourg 1 Groschen, minted from 1397 to 1681, was a crucial silver denomination for the Free Imperial City of Strasbourg. This extensive period spanned the late Middle Ages, Reformation and Thirty Years' War, highlighting Strasbourg’s economic autonomy and strategic importance within the Holy Roman Empire. Issued by the city’s magistracy, the Groschen underscored its status as a vital trading hub on the Rhine, providing a stable currency amidst regional upheaval. Its prolonged production attests to its reliability.

Artistry: The Strasbourg Groschen's design, evolving over three centuries, generally adhered to late Gothic and early Renaissance numismatic traditions of Germanic territories. Anonymous municipal engravers focused on clear heraldic representations. Common motifs include the city's arms—often a bend sinister or fleur-de-lis—on one side, signifying civic identity, frequently paired with the Imperial Eagle or a religious figure on the reverse, acknowledging fealty to the Holy Roman Emperor. Style prioritized legibility and symbolic clarity.

Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, weighing approximately 3.56 grams and measuring 26.5 millimeters, the 1 Groschen is a product of hammered coinage. Technical qualities often include varying strike consistency, planchet irregularities, and potential off-center strikes. High-points prone to wear include the central city shield, Imperial Eagle wings, and raised lettering. Collectors should assess for strong device details, legible legends, and overall flan integrity, which significantly impacts grade given inherent production variances.