Catalog
| Obverse description | Caped bust of Karl facing 1/4 right, legend around (start 8h), date at bottom. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
CAR FERD P P ET S EPS WRAT 1639. |
| Reverse description | Two ornate oval-shaped shields of 4-fold arms (left: Poland, Sweden, Lithuania, Gotland; right: Diocese of Breslau), separated by crossed and chained scepter and crozier, under a radiant sun. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | OMNIS POTESTAS A DEO EST + |
| Edge | Plain |
| Mint | |
| Mintage | 1639 |
| Numisquare ID | 1481643359 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This 1639 2 Thalers was issued under Charles Ferdinand Vasa, Prince-Bishop of Breslau, son of Polish King Sigismund III Vasa. His tenure (1625-1655) coincided with the devastating Thirty Years' War, a period of intense religious and political strife. Silesia, home to Breslau, was a critical battleground. Issuing this substantial silver denomination during wartime underscores the Bishopric's wealth and strategic importance, likely funding military efforts or asserting Catholic authority.
Artistry: The coin exemplifies the Baroque style prevalent in 17th-century Central European coinage. While the engraver is typically unrecorded, the design exhibits characteristic grandeur. The