2 Kreuzer

Historical Context: This 2 Kreuzer coin was issued by the Free Imperial City of Regensburg between 1583 and 1585. During this late 16th-century period, Regensburg held a significant position within the Holy Roman Empire as a self-governing entity directly subordinate to the Emperor, rather than a local prince. As a prominent trading hub and frequent host of Imperial Diets, its coinage reflected its economic autonomy and political importance amidst the religious and political complexities following the Reformation.

Artistry: The engraver for this specific denomination remains largely unrecorded, typical for smaller fractional issues of the era. Stylistically, the coin adheres to the prevalent Late Renaissance aesthetic common in German states, characterized by a blend of formal heraldry and emerging naturalism. The obverse typically features the Imperial double-headed eagle, symbolizing Regensburg's status as an Imperial City, while the reverse displays the denomination "2 KREUZER" and the date, often accompanied by the city's arms or a relevant legend.

Technical/Grading: Struck in .500 fine silver, this 1.5-gram coin with a 19.2 mm diameter is a modest issue. Key high-points for wear and strike analysis include the details of the eagle's feathers and crowns on the obverse, and the serifs of the legends and numerals on the reverse. Due to the small flan and relatively soft alloy, strikes can often be weak, particularly at the periphery, leading to partial legends or flattened devices. Planchet quality can vary, sometimes showing minor imperfections or irregular shape.