1 Oord / Liard - Ferdinand Zeeland arms

Historical Context: The 1 Oord / Liard of Reckem, issued between 1624 and 1657, originates from the autonomous Lordship of Reckem under Ferdinand of Bavaria. As Prince-Bishop of Liège and Elector of Cologne, Ferdinand was a powerful figure within the Holy Roman Empire. This copper coinage, bearing the "Zeeland arms," represents a clear assertion of local seigneurial authority during the tumultuous Thirty Years' War. Its issuance provided essential low-denomination currency for daily commerce within the lordship, demonstrating a crucial aspect of local economic autonomy in a period of widespread conflict.

Artistry: The design of this Oord reflects the prevalent Early Baroque aesthetic of the 17th century, though likely executed by a local, unnamed engraver. The obverse typically features Ferdinand’s titulature or monogram, while the reverse prominently displays the "Zeeland arms," a specific heraldic device associated with his territorial claims or the lordship itself. The engraving, while often robust, would prioritize legibility of the arms and legends over intricate detail, characteristic of utilitarian copper issues intended for widespread circulation rather than artistic showcase.

Technical/Grading: As a copper issue, the 1 Oord exhibits varying strike quality. High-points for preservation assessment include the details of the heraldic crown, the specific elements within the Zeeland arms, and the clarity of the surrounding legends. Due to the nature of copper planchets and production methods of the era, examples often present with irregular flans, off-center strikes, and evidence of die wear. A premium is placed on well-centered specimens with strong, even strikes that clearly render the armorial bearings and all inscriptions, indicating superior minting quality.