| Description de l’avers |
4-fold arms with central shield of Schwarzburg supported by wildman and woman holding pennants, 3 ornate helmets above. |
| Écriture de l’avers |
Latin |
| Légende de l’avers |
G.H.G. C. IN. SCH. E(T). DO. I. ARN(S). (E.) SVN(D). (H). (ET). LEV(T). |
| Description du revers |
Crowned imperial eagle with orb on breast. |
| Écriture du revers |
Latin |
| Légende du revers |
MAXIMIL(IA)(N)(VS). II. D. G. (ROM). IMP. SE(M)(P). AVG(V). (FF. DE.). |
| Tranche |
|
| Atelier |
|
| Tirage |
ND (1564-1570) - - |
| ID Numisquare |
1287155370 |
Historical Context: This 1 Thaler coin, issued between 1564 and 1570, represents a significant numismatic artifact from the County of Schwarzburg during the joint rule of Günther XLI "the Bellicose" and John Günther I. Günther XLI, a prominent military leader and statesman of his era, played a crucial role in consolidating Schwarzburg's influence within the Holy Roman Empire. The issuance of a Thaler, a substantial silver denomination, underscored the county's sovereign rights and economic autonomy in a period of complex political fragmentation following the Reformation. This coinage affirmed the dynastic continuity and princely authority of the House of Schwarzburg.
Artistry: The design of this Thaler is characteristic of the German Renaissance numismatic tradition. While no specific engraver is attributed in historical records, the craftsmanship reflects the skill of a court engraver or a master from a regional mint. The obverse typically features the armored busts of the two co-rulers, often depicted in profile or facing each other, surrounded by their titles. The reverse prominently displays the elaborate multi-quartered coat of arms of Schwarzburg, often surmounted by a helmet and mantling, encircled by the imperial or territorial legend. The style emphasizes realistic portraiture and heraldic precision, typical of the era's princely coinage.
Technical/Grading: Key high-points for wear or strike weakness on this issue include the highest relief areas of the rulers' portraits, such as the helmets, noses, and cheekbones, as well as intricate details within the armorial bearings, particularly the crown, mantling, and the fine lines of the quartered shield. Original strikes often exhibit variable quality; while some examples may show sharp details and full luster, others can suffer from planchet irregularities, off-centering, or softness in peripheral legends due to die wear. The silver composition typically allows for good preservation of detail when handled carefully, but environmental toning is common.