Catalog
| Issuer | Frankfurt, Free imperial city of |
|---|---|
| Year | 1853-1858 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Heller (1⁄480) |
| Currency | Gulden (1838-1866) |
| Composition | Copper |
| Weight | 1.47 g |
| Diameter | 17 mm |
| Thickness | 0.8 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#351, AKS#34, Jaeg 6 FHI#29 |
| Obverse description | Eagle with legend on the sides. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | FREIE STADT FRANKFURT |
| Reverse description | 3-line inscription with denomination and date. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | 1 HELLER 1854 |
| Edge | Smooth |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1853 - - 411 000 1854 - - 271 000 1855 - - 430 000 1856 - - 484 000 1857 - - 723 000 1858 - - 377 000 |
| Numisquare ID | 1055304430 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This 1 Heller coin was issued by the Free Imperial City of Frankfurt between 1853 and 1858, a period of stability within the German Confederation post-1848 revolutions. As a sovereign city-state and seat of the Bundestag, Frankfurt maintained its own monetary system, symbolizing its economic autonomy and political significance in a pre-unified Germany. The Heller, a low denomination, was crucial for daily commerce, reflecting the city's vibrant trade and financial activities during gradual economic modernization.
Artistry: The specific engraver for this common circulating Heller is typically undocumented. Its design adheres to the prevailing functional aesthetic of mid-19th century German coinage, reflecting a blend of traditional heraldic representation and emerging industrial clarity. The obverse prominently features the iconic Frankfurt eagle, symbolizing the city's imperial past and independence, while the reverse displays the denomination and date in a clear, legible font.
Technical/Grading: Struck in copper, weighing 1.47 grams and measuring 17 millimeters, this 1 Heller coin exhibits typical characteristics. Key high-points for grading include the eagle's head, wing tips, and the upper serifs of the lettering. Due to copper's nature and mass production, these coins often display slight strike weaknesses, especially on broader fields or finer plumage details. Surface preservation and wear on these high-points are critical determinants of grade.