Catalog
| Issuer | Norway |
|---|---|
| Year | 1844 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Speciedaler |
| Currency | Speciedaler (1816-1875) |
| Composition | Silver (.875) |
| Weight | 28.89 g |
| Diameter | 37.5 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#313, SIEG#88 |
| Obverse description | Draped bust of Carl XIV Johan, right. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
CARL XIV JOHAN NORGES SVER.G.OG V.KONGE. (Translation: Carl XIV Johan King of Norway, Sweden, the Goths and the Wends) |
| Reverse description | Crowned shield with rampant lion divides value within wreath, legend above. Below,crossed hammers divides date. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | 9 1/4 ST 1 MK FS. 1 Sps 1844 |
| Edge | Reeded |
| Mint |
Royal Norwegian Mint (Den Kongelige Mynt), Kongsberg, Norway (1686-date) |
| Mintage |
1844 - - 302 000 |
| Numisquare ID | 1008243510 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 1844 Speciedaler of Carl XIV marks the concluding year of his reign as King of Norway and Sweden. Carl XIV, formerly Jean-Baptiste Bernadotte, ruled from 1818, overseeing the union established in 1814. This Norwegian issue highlights the kingdom's distinct monetary identity and autonomy within the union. The Speciedaler, a robust silver standard, served as Norway's primary currency, reflecting its economic stability and connection to European monetary systems.
Artistry: The 1844 Speciedaler's design embodies the Neoclassical aesthetic of its era. The obverse presents a dignified bare head portrait of Carl XIV facing right, encircled by his regal title. This portrayal underscores royal authority and leadership. The reverse proudly features the crowned Norwegian lion, clutching an axe—a powerful national symbol. A wreath encircles the lion, with the denomination "1 SPECIE D." and the date "1844" below, executed with clarity and balance.
Technical/Grading: Struck from .875 fine silver, weighing 28.89 grams and measuring 37.5 mm, this large coin requires close inspection. Key high-points prone to wear on the obverse include the king's hair, ear, and cheekbone. On the reverse, the lion's mane, crown details, and the axe blade are crucial for assessing strike quality and grade. Early strikes exhibit strong detail, but later strikes or worn dies often show softness on central devices and finer wreath elements.