1 Groschen - Adolphus XIII
| Issuer | Holstein-Schaumburg-Pinneberg, County of |
|---|---|
| Year | 1589-1601 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Groschen = 1⁄24 Thaler |
| Currency | Thaler |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 1.80 g |
| Diameter | 22.5 mm |
| Thickness | 0.85 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | MB#12, Lange#823 |
| Obverse description | 4-fold arms with central shield of Schaumburg. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | AD(OL). D. G. C(O). HO(L)(I). S(C). E. S(T). D. (I.) G(H). |
| Reverse description | Imperial orb with Z4 divides date. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | RVDOL. II. (D.G.) RO(M). I(M)(P). S(E)(M). A(V)(G). |
| Edge | Smooth |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1589 - (15)89 - 1589 AS - (15)89 - 1590 AS - (15)90 - 1592 - (15)9z - 1593 - (15)93 - 1594 - (15)94 - 1595 - (15)95 - 1596 - (15)96 - 1599 - (15)99 - 1600 - (1)600 - 1601 - (1)601 - |
| Numisquare ID | 1590804870 |
| Additional information |
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Historical Context: This 1 Groschen, issued 1589-1601, originates from the County of Holstein-Schaumburg-Pinneberg under Count Adolphus XIII (reigned 1576-1601). As a minor principality within the Holy Roman Empire, Holstein-Schaumburg-Pinneberg exercised its sovereign right to mint coinage. This was a crucial assertion of autonomy amidst shifting political alliances and post-Reformation religious tensions. Such issues facilitated local commerce and served as a tangible representation of the Count's authority and legitimacy.
Artistry: The Groschen's design reflects the prevailing late Renaissance numismatic style in German territories. While the specific engraver is typically anonymous, the artistry usually features a dignified, armored bust of Count Adolphus XIII on the obverse, often facing right, encircled by his Latin titles. The reverse commonly displays the complex dynastic arms of Holstein-Schaumburg-Pinneberg, quartered with various family claims, along with the date. The overall aesthetic balances heraldic precision with the practical requirements of a circulating medium.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver (1.80g, 22.5mm), this coin was produced using traditional hammer-striking methods. Key high-points for grading include the highest relief areas of the Count's effigy (e.g., hair, nose, helmet details) and the intricate elements of the heraldic shield on the reverse. Due to the manufacturing process, examples frequently exhibit irregular flan shapes, minor off-center strikes, and areas of flatness. Well-preserved specimens show clear legends and strong central design definition.