1 Heller - Bernhard of Sachsen-Meiningen

Historical Context: This 1 Heller coin was issued for the County of Henneberg-Ilmenau between 1701 and 1703, a period when the territory was administered by Bernhard I, Duke of Saxe-Meiningen. Following the extinction of the direct Henneberg line in 1660, its territories, including Ilmenau, were partitioned among various Saxon ducal houses. Bernhard I (1649-1706), the first Duke of Saxe-Meiningen, thus exercised authority over this region. This small copper denomination represents the foundational currency for everyday transactions within this fragmented early 18th-century Holy Roman Empire principality, reflecting the local economic needs and the monetary sovereignty of the minor German states.

Artistry: The engraver of this specific Heller remains anonymous, a common occurrence for low-denomination copper coinage of the era. The design adheres to the functional aesthetic prevalent in early Baroque German numismatics, prioritizing legibility and the clear assertion of ducal authority over elaborate artistic flourishes. Given its diminutive size of 15mm, the design would typically feature a simple ducal monogram, likely "B" for Bernhard, possibly surmounted by a crown, alongside the denomination and date. The stylistic school emphasizes clarity and directness, characteristic of currency intended for widespread, unpretentious use.

Technical/Grading: Struck in copper, with a weight of 0.55 grams and a diameter of 15 millimeters, this Heller is prone to significant wear. Key high-points for preservation would typically include the raised elements of the ducal monogram, any surrounding lettering, and the highest points of a potential crown or simple crest. Technical strike qualities often vary; examples frequently exhibit minor off-centering, weak strikes, and planchet imperfections such as laminations or irregular flan shapes, common for mass-produced copper coinage from smaller mints of this period. Fully struck examples with crisp details are highly sought after.