1 Thaler

Historical Context: Halberstadt, a significant city within its Prince-Bishopric, issued this 1 Thaler in 1629 during the brutal Thirty Years' War. This era saw the Holy Roman Empire and its Catholic League allies, led by Wallenstein, at their zenith, deeply impacting northern German territories. Such coinage was vital for the city to finance defense, sustain its economy, and assert civic autonomy amidst widespread conflict and instability. The Thaler's issuance underscores the city's desperate efforts to maintain order and solvency.

Artistry: The 1629 Halberstadt Thaler reflects the Late Renaissance to early Baroque numismatic style common in German states. While the engraver is typically unrecorded, the design prominently features the city's coat of arms on the obverse, often depicting an eagle and other heraldic elements. The reverse commonly displays the crowned double-headed Imperial Eagle, signifying its formal status within the Holy Roman Empire, encircled by the legend. This aesthetic prioritizes clear heraldry and legible inscriptions, typical of civic issues.

Technical/Grading: For grading, key high-points on this silver Thaler include the raised details of the city's coat of arms, especially fine lines within the shield and the eagle's plumage. On the reverse, the Imperial Eagle's feathers, crowns, and talons are crucial areas for wear or weak strike assessment. Expect potential planchet irregularities, minor flan cracks, and an uneven strike, particularly at the edges, characteristic of 17th-century minting. A strong, even strike with full detail on both sides denotes a premium example.