Catalog
| Issuer | Liechtenstein |
|---|---|
| Year | 1862-1966 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Vereinsthaler = 1⁄30 Metric Pound |
| Currency | Thaler (1728-1868) |
| Composition | Silver (.900) |
| Weight | 18.52 g |
| Diameter | 33 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Medal alignment ↑↑ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | 1893 |
| Reference(s) | Y#1 |
| Obverse description | Head of Johann II facing right. Lettering around. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
JOHANN II· FÜRST ZU LIECHTENSTEIN A (Translation: Johann II Prince of Liechtenstein) |
| Reverse description | Crowned, mantled Coat of Arms in Order chain. Lettering around. Date below. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
EIN VEREINSTHALER XXX EIN PFUND FEIN 1862 (Translation: One Vereinsthaler XXX one pound fine (Note: 1 Vereinsthaler = 1/30 Metric Pound)) |
| Edge | |
| Mint |
A Münze Österreich, Vienna, Austria(1194-date) A M Munich, Germany (1158-date) |
| Mintage |
1862 A - - 1 920 1862 A - Pattern - 1862 (1966) A M - Restrike - |
| Numisquare ID | 7147993970 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context:The 1862 Liechtenstein 1 Vereinsthaler, Y#1, represents a pivotal numismatic issue from the early reign of Prince Johann II (1858-1929), one of Europe's longest-reigning monarchs. This coin was struck during Liechtenstein's participation in the Vereinsthaler monetary union, a significant economic alliance among German states and Austria. Its issuance underscores the principality's sovereign status and its integration into the broader German economic sphere before the formation of the German Empire. This period saw Liechtenstein navigate complex geopolitical shifts, maintaining its independence while aligning with larger powers through such monetary agreements.
Artistry:The design of the 1862 Vereinsthaler adheres to the prevailing neoclassical and realist artistic conventions of mid-19th century European coinage. The obverse features a dignified, mature portrait of Prince Johann II, rendered with precise detail, characteristic of the era's emphasis on accurate regal representation. While the specific engraver is not widely documented, the style suggests the influence of a prominent German or Austrian mint, likely Vienna or Munich, known for their high standards. The reverse displays the crowned princely mantle with the armorial shield of Liechtenstein, encircled by the denomination and date, embodying heraldic tradition and national identity.
Technical/Grading:Struck in .900 fine silver, this 18.52-gram, 33mm coin typically exhibits a strong, even strike. Key high-points susceptible to wear on the obverse include the highest contours of Prince Johann II's hair, cheekbone, and the details of his collar. On the reverse, the intricate details of the crown, the fine lines within the princely mantle, and the highest points of the shield are areas to examine for sharpness and retention of original luster. Well-preserved examples will show crispness in these areas, along with clear definition of the legend and the beaded border, reflecting the generally high minting standards of the Vereinsthaler series.