1 Schilling

Historical Context: This 1 Schilling coin was issued by the Free Hanseatic city of Hamburg during the late 15th century (1468-1499), a period marking the zenith of the Hanseatic League's economic and political influence. As a prominent member, Hamburg enjoyed significant autonomy within the Holy Roman Empire, exercising its sovereign right to mint coinage. The Schilling served as a crucial regional trade currency, facilitating commerce across the Baltic and North Seas and underscoring Hamburg's mercantile power and independence, free from a singular monarchical ruler.

Artistry: The engraver of this specific die remains anonymous, typical for municipal mints of the era. The coin's design adheres to the prevailing Late Gothic stylistic school, characterized by a focus on heraldic elements and clear, albeit often simplified, imagery. The obverse typically features the iconic Hamburg city gate (Hammaburg), a powerful symbol of its sovereignty and defensive strength. The reverse commonly displays a long cross, often with a central rosette or four-leaf clover, surrounded by legends detailing the issuing authority or a religious invocation.

Technical/Grading: Struck in silver with a weight of 2.04 grams, this hammered coinage exhibits characteristics common to late medieval minting. High-points for wear or strike weakness would include the uppermost battlements of the city gate and the central intersection of the reverse cross. Expect variability in strike quality, often presenting with irregular flans, minor off-centering, and potential weakness in the legends or peripheral design elements due to uneven hammer blows. Surface preservation and clarity of the central motifs are key grading considerations.