Catalog
| Issuer | Liechtenstein |
|---|---|
| Year | 1778 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Thaler |
| Currency | Thaler (1728-1868) |
| Composition | Silver (.833) |
| Weight | 28.06 g |
| Diameter | 41 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | C#6, Dav EC III#1580 |
| Obverse description | Mantled bust of Franz Josef I facing right with chain of the Golden Fleece. Lettering around. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
FRANC·IOS·D·G·S·R·I·PR·& GUB·DOM·DE LIECHTENSTEIN· F·Wˣ (Translation: Latin: Franz Ioseph Dei Gratia Sacri Romani Imperii Princeps & Gubernator Domus De Liechtenstein.) |
| Reverse description | Crowned oval Coat of Arms within frame suspending order chain. Lettering around. Date at the end of a legend. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
OPP·& CARN·DUX·COM·RITTB·S·C·M·CONS·INT·AUR·VELLERIS EQUES·1778· (Translation: Latin: Oppaviae & Carnoviae Dux Comes Rittbergae Sacrae Caesareae Majestatis Consiliarius Intimus Aurei Velleris Eques) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1778 - - 1 250 |
| Numisquare ID | 1165060270 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 1778 1 Konventionsthaler of Franz Josef I (1726-1781) places Liechtenstein within the late 18th-century Holy Roman Empire. As Prince from 1772, Franz Josef I’s reign saw the principality adhere to the 1753 Munich Coin Convention. This standardized silver coin reflects Liechtenstein's economic integration and affirmation of sovereignty, facilitating trade. It represented a significant denomination for the principality’s commerce.
Artistry: Artistically, this Konventionsthaler bridges late Baroque and early Neoclassical styles. While the specific engraver is often unrecorded, the obverse typically presents a finely rendered, realistic bust of Franz Josef I, facing right, with his princely titles. The reverse proudly displays the crowned oval shield of the Liechtenstein arms, frequently encircled by the Order of the Golden Fleece. The design balances regal symbolism with emerging classical clarity.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .833 fine silver, weighing 28.06 grams, and 41 mm in diameter, the technical qualities are key for grading. High-points include the prince's hair, ear, and drapery on the obverse, and the crown's details, shield's armorial bearings, and the Golden Fleece on the reverse. Given the large planchet and period striking methods, central weakness or slight flatness on the highest relief points can occur, even on well-preserved examples.