1 Körtling

Historical Context: This 1 Körtling coin, issued by the Imperial Free City of Goslar between 1552 and 1555, emerges from a turbulent period within the Holy Roman Empire. Goslar, renowned for its rich silver mines at Rammelsberg, maintained significant autonomy and was a prominent Protestant stronghold in the wake of the Schmalkaldic War. The Körtling, a fractional silver denomination, served local commerce during an era marked by religious tensions, underscoring the city's economic vitality and independent minting rights.

Artistry: The specific engraver for such a minor denomination is typically unrecorded. Stylistically, the coin reflects the practical German Renaissance numismatic tradition prevalent in the mid-16th century. Designs for Körtlings were generally compact and heraldic, likely featuring the Imperial eagle, symbolizing Goslar's status, often with a superimposed shield of the city's arms. Legends would be minimal, focusing on the issuer and date, executed with functional rather than elaborate artistic flourishes.

Technical/Grading: Given its small size (0.77 gg silver), the 1 Körtling often exhibits characteristics typical of fractional hammer-struck coinage. High-points for preservation include the details of the eagle's head and wings, the clarity of any shield on its breast, and the legibility of the surrounding legends. Technical strike quality can vary; weak strikes, off-center alignment, and irregular planchets are common due to the production methods of the era. Collectors should anticipate minor flan imperfections and unevenness in strike depth.