2 Schillings

Historical Context: The 1522 Lübeck 2 Schillings emerges from a pivotal moment in European history. As a preeminent Free Hanseatic City, Lübeck wielded significant economic and political autonomy, including the crucial right of coinage (Münzrecht). This year falls squarely within the early German Reformation, a period of profound religious and social upheaval following Martin Luther's 1517 theses and the 1521 Diet of Worms. While Lübeck would officially embrace Lutheranism later, the city was already a nexus for new ideas and trade, navigating shifting allegiances and the declining influence of the Hanseatic League against rising territorial states. The coin's silver content and denomination reflect the regional monetary system of the time.

Artistry: The artistic execution of this 2 Schillings piece adheres to the prevailing Late Gothic style, transitioning into early German Renaissance aesthetics. While specific engravers for municipal coinage of this period are rarely individually identified, the mint masters would have overseen workshops producing dies in a robust, functional style. Lübeck coinage typically features heraldic devices such as the city's double-headed eagle or the imperial eagle, often accompanied by the city's patron saint, St. John the Baptist. The design emphasizes clear legibility of legends and symbolic representations over intricate naturalism, characteristic of northern European urban mints of the early 16th century.

Technical/Grading: For this 1522 Lübeck 2 Schillings (MB#33), critical high-points for grading include the definition of the eagle's feathers and head, particularly on the breast and crown, as well as the details of any accompanying escutcheons or figures. On the obverse, if St. John the Baptist is depicted, sharpness of his facial features, hair, and the lamb (if present) are paramount. The legends around the rim are frequently weakly struck; full, clear lettering without loss of serifs is a premium. Planchet quality, often irregular for this era, including strike centering, roundness, and any significant laminations or flan cracks, also heavily influences the final grade.