1 Stüber - Charles William of Anhalt-Zerbst

Historical Context: This 1 Stüber coin was issued under Charles William of Anhalt-Zerbst, who reigned from 1667 to 1718. During this period, the Lordship of Jever, a strategically significant territory in Lower Saxony, was under the suzerainty of the House of Anhalt-Zerbst. The issuance of this billon denomination reflects the sovereign's right to coinage and served the practical needs of daily commerce in a post-Thirty Years' War landscape, where fractional currency was essential for economic recovery and stability across the fragmented Holy Roman Empire.

Artistry: The design of this 1 Stüber is characteristic of the utilitarian approach common for fractional billon coinage of the late 17th and early 18th centuries in German states. While specific engravers are rarely documented for such denominations, the style generally aligns with a simplified Baroque aesthetic. The obverse typically features a crowned monogram of Charles William or the arms of Anhalt-Zerbst/Jever, while the reverse displays the denomination, date, and often a territorial or religious symbol. The small flan and billon composition necessitated a concise, legible design.

Technical/Grading: As a billon issue, this coin often exhibits characteristics inherent to its production. High-points for wear and strike typically include the raised elements of the monarch's monogram or the central details of any heraldic device on the obverse, and the numerals of the date and denomination on the reverse. Due to the alloy and period minting techniques, examples frequently show weak strikes, planchet imperfections, and off-center alignment. The billon composition also renders these coins susceptible to environmental degradation and heavy circulation wear.