1 Mariengroschen - Maximilian of Horrich

Historical Context: This 1 Mariengroschen coin was issued in 1715 under Maximilian of Horrich, Prince-Abbot of Corvey (1715-1721). As an Imperial Abbey, Corvey held sovereign rights within the Holy Roman Empire, including the crucial privilege of coinage. The early 18th century was a period of relative stability, allowing ecclesiastical principalities like Corvey to assert their temporal authority. The Mariengroschen, a common billon denomination in northern Germany, facilitated local commerce and underscored the Abbey's economic autonomy.

Artistry: The design reflects the provincial Baroque aesthetic typical of smaller German mints. While no specific engraver is commonly attributed, the die-cutter would have rendered the Prince-Abbot's armorial bearings, likely on the obverse, alongside the denomination and date on the reverse. Given the Abbey's ecclesiastical nature, a religious motif, such as the Virgin Mary, was often incorporated, either as a central device or within the legend, reflecting the spiritual foundation of the issuer.

Technical/Grading: Struck in billon, a low-grade silver alloy, this coin's technical execution often exhibits characteristics common to such issues. High-points for armorials would include the crest and prominent shield elements. Due to billon's nature and the small 18mm flan, strikes can be uneven, leading to softness in peripheral details or slight off-centering. Planchet quality may vary, occasionally showing minor flaws or lamination, impacting overall sharpness, though central details are often better preserved.