2 Schillings - Henry V

Historical Context: The 2 Schillings of Henry V (Heinrich V, "the Peaceful"), 1524-1525, places Mecklenburg at the precipice of the Reformation. As Duke of Mecklenburg-Schwerin (1503-1552), Henry V navigated mounting Lutheran influence. This silver coin, predating Mecklenburg's official embrace of the Reformation, reflects intense religious and political flux. It served as a common transactional piece, signifying the Principality's regional autonomy amidst profound theological and imperial shifts.

Artistry: The coin's artistry reflects late Gothic to early Renaissance transition, characteristic of North German mints. Engravers for such denominations in Mecklenburg are typically unrecorded. The obverse commonly features a stylized, authoritative bust of Henry V, often armored or robed, wearing a ducal cap, surrounded by Latin titles. The reverse prominently displays the ducal arms of Mecklenburg, particularly the bull's head, frequently quartered with other dynastic heraldry, asserting the Principality's identity and ruler's legitimacy.

Technical/Grading: Key high-points for grading this 2 Schillings include definition of Henry V's facial features—especially nose, eyes, ducal cap—and prominent attire elements on the obverse. On the reverse, clarity of the bull's head, particularly horns and any crown, and intricate details within the shield's quarterings are paramount. Given typical striking inconsistencies and planchet irregularities of early 16th-century minting, well-defined legends and a clear date are crucial indicators for superior examples.