Catalog
| Issuer | Principality of Neuchâtel |
|---|---|
| Year | 1713 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 20 Kreuzers (5⁄21) |
| Currency | Thaler (1707-1786) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 4.71 g |
| Diameter | 26 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#37 2#700 , Froidevaux#76 |
| Obverse description | Bust of King Frederik IV facing right, with long curled hair, wearing cravat under ornate plate armour and collar of the Order of the Elephant. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
FRID IIII D G DAN NOR VAN GOT REX (Translation: Frederick IV, by the grace of God, King of Denmark, Norway, the Wends, and the Goths.) |
| Reverse description | Crowned coat of arms of Denmark, Sweden, and Norway on square shield. Collar of the Order of the Dannebrog below, with alternating crosses, crowned `C5` monograms, and crowned `W`. Collar of the Order of the Elephant below, with alternating towers and elephants. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
DVX · SLES · HOLS · STORM · DITM · COM · OLD · ET · DEL * 17 04 * (Translation: Duke of Schleswig, Holstein, Stormarn and Dithmarschen, Count of Oldenburg and Delmenhorst.) |
| Edge | Plain or embossed lettering. |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1704 - Km# 480.1 Type 1 - 309 1704 ♥ - Km# 480.2 Type 2 - |
| Numisquare ID | 1037056590 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This 20 Kreuzers coin, minted in 1713, hails from the Principality of Neuchâtel under Frederick I. As King in Prussia and Elector of Brandenburg, Frederick I (r. 1701-1713) was pivotal in consolidating Hohenzollern power. Neuchâtel, a strategic western possession acquired in 1707, issued coinage under his authority, symbolizing its integration into the Prussian sphere while maintaining its distinct legal identity. This piece reflects dynastic expansion and the assertion of sovereign rights through monetary issue.
Artistry: The design of this 20 Kreuzers piece exemplifies the Baroque numismatic style prevalent in early 18th-century Central Europe. While a specific engraver is not commonly attributed, the work likely reflects courtly aesthetics or skilled local artisans. The obverse typically features a laureated and cuirassed bust of Frederick I, facing right, conveying regal authority. The reverse displays a crowned imperial eagle, often with a central shield bearing the arms of Neuchâtel, surrounded by the denomination and date, all rendered with heraldic precision.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, weighing 4.71 grams and measuring 26 millimeters, this coin exhibits typical characteristics for its denomination. Key high-points for grading include the hair, laurel wreath, and nose on the obverse bust, and the crown, eagle's head, and wing tips on the reverse. Expect variations in strike quality; while central details are often strong, peripheral legends or finer elements may show weakness. Planchet irregularities and minor flan cracks are also common for coinage of this period, influencing overall technical assessment.