2 Thalers - Johann Christian and Johann Seyfried

Historical Context: The 1658 2 Thalers of Krummau represents a significant issuance during the joint rule of Princes Johann Christian (1641-1710) and Johann Seyfried (1644-1713) von Eggenberg. As Dukes of Krummau, they inherited the principality in 1649, navigating the post-Thirty Years' War era. This large silver denomination underscores the Eggenberg family's elevated status and economic recovery, asserting their sovereign minting rights and prestige within the Holy Roman Empire. The coin serves as a tangible testament to their consolidation of power.

Artistry: While the specific engraver remains unrecorded, the coin's design firmly aligns with the prevailing Baroque stylistic school of the mid-17th century. The obverse likely features elaborate, conjoined or facing busts of the two princes, rendered with characteristic flowing wigs, detailed drapery, and aristocratic grandeur. The reverse would display the complex, multi-quartered armorial bearings of the Eggenberg family, crowned and supported, showcasing intricate heraldic detail. This approach emphasizes dynastic power and wealth through sophisticated portraiture and elaborate symbolism.

Technical/Grading: For optimal grading, collectors should examine the highest points of relief, typically including the princes' hair, noses, and cheekbones on the obverse, and the crown, crest, and central elements of the armorial shield on the reverse. While thaler-sized planchets were generally well-prepared, minor imperfections or adjustment marks are not uncommon. A strong, even strike is crucial for full detail, though slight weakness in the very centers of the portraits or shield is occasionally observed. Original mint luster, if preserved, significantly enhances desirability.