1 Groschen

Issuer Schweidnitz, City of
Year 1505-1511
Type Standard circulation coin
Value 1 Groschen
Currency Groschen
Composition Silver
Weight
Diameter
Thickness
Shape Round (irregular)
Technique Hammered
Orientation
Engraver(s)
In circulation to
Reference(s) MB#4, Kop#8702, Saur#120
Obverse description Griffin left in circle
Obverse script Latin (uncial)
Obverse lettering + GROSSVS: SVEIDNICENSIS.
Reverse description 1/2-length facing figure of St. Wenceslaus in circle
Reverse script Latin (uncial)
Reverse lettering + S. WENCESLAVS. PATRONVS.
Edge
Mint
Mintage ND (1505-1511) - -
Numisquare ID 1197947500
Additional information

Historical Context: The Schweidnitz 1 Groschen (1505-1511) emerges from a period of significant Central European transition. Schweidnitz (Świdnica), a key Silesian city within the Bohemian Crown Lands, exercised vital municipal minting rights. Under Jagiellonian rule (Vladislaus II/Louis II), Silesia was an economic hub within the Holy Roman Empire. This Groschen issue highlights the city's robust economic standing and participation in regional trade, predating the Reformation's widespread impact.

Artistry: No specific engravers or signatures are known for this municipal Schweidnitz Groschen. Its artistry reflects the prevalent late Gothic to early Renaissance styles of Central European numismatics. Designs typically feature the city's heraldry—a crowned eagle (obverse) and the Bohemian lion (reverse)—rendered with characteristic clarity. Legends are generally well-formed, encircling central devices, prioritizing symbolic representation and legibility over intricate artistic flourishes.

Technical/Grading: Optimal grading for this type prioritizes high-relief preservation. On the obverse, crucial details include the crowned eagle's head, wing feathers, and talons, plus legend definition. The reverse, often featuring the Bohemian lion, requires sharp detail in its mane, crown, and tail. Crispness of all legends is paramount. An even, full strike across all devices and legends, coupled with minimal flan imperfections, significantly enhances the coin's numismatic value and grade.

×