2 Stüber - Charles William

Historical Context: This 2 Stüber coin was issued by the Lordship of Jever during the reign of Charles William (Karl Wilhelm) of Anhalt-Zerbst, who ruled from 1667 to 1718. Jever, a small but strategically significant coastal territory in northwestern Germany, maintained its semi-autonomous status within the Holy Roman Empire. The issuance of its own coinage, such as this fractional Stüber, served as a tangible assertion of sovereignty and was vital for facilitating local commerce and daily transactions in an era of complex monetary systems across German states.

Artistry: While a specific engraver for this billon issue is not typically documented, the coin's design adheres to the prevalent Baroque stylistic conventions of the late 17th and early 18th centuries in German territories. The obverse likely features a crowned monogram or initial of Charles William, surrounded by his titles. The reverse typically displays the denomination "2 STÜBER" and the date, often accompanied by a simple emblem or the arms of Jever. The designs on such base metal issues were often simplified for efficient mass production.

Technical/Grading: Struck on a billon flan weighing 1.54 grams and measuring 23 millimeters, this 2 Stüber often exhibits characteristic production challenges. High-points susceptible to wear typically include the crown and intricate elements of the monogram on the obverse, and any central device on the reverse. Due to the inherent properties of billon, issues such as irregular planchets, weak or uneven strikes, and surface corrosion are common. These factors significantly influence the preservation of fine detail and overall eye appeal, making well-struck, well-preserved examples highly desirable.