2 Schillings - Ulrich III

Historical Context: This 2 Schillings coin was issued in 1567 under Ulrich III, Duke of Mecklenburg-Güstrow (r. 1555-1603). His reign marked a period of stability and economic prosperity following the Reformation. Ulrich was a shrewd administrator and patron, navigating the Holy Roman Empire's complex politics, consolidating ducal authority, and maintaining a Protestant stance. This silver denomination reflects the duchy's economic autonomy and its participation in the broader North German monetary system, providing essential currency for local commerce.

Artistry: The design adheres to prevailing stylistic conventions of late German Renaissance coinage. While a specific engraver is typically unrecorded, skilled mint masters crafted the dies. The obverse likely features a stylized bust of Duke Ulrich III, often in profile, or a prominent display of the ducal arms. The reverse would typically present the Mecklenburg-Güstrow coat of arms, possibly quartered, along with the denomination and date, all rendered with heraldic precision and emerging naturalism characteristic of the era.

Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, weighing 3.03 grams, this coin's technical qualities are typical for 16th-century minting. High-points susceptible to wear include the duke's facial features, hair, and intricate collar details on the obverse. On the reverse, crowns, lion's manes, or eagle's feathers within the heraldic devices show the earliest signs of friction. A well-struck example exhibits full detail on the legend and central motifs, with minimal weakness, though planchet irregularities and slight off-centering are common due to hand-striking.