Catalog
| Issuer | Canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden |
|---|---|
| Year | 1738 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 3 Kreuzer = 1 Groschen (1⁄40) |
| Currency | Thaler (1737-1744) |
| Composition | Billon |
| Weight | 1.26 g |
| Diameter | 22 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#30, HMZ 1#2-41c, Divo/Tob17#792a |
| Obverse description | Bear rearing left within circle. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | MONETA NOVA REIP · APPENZ : |
| Reverse description | Ornate cruciform with value in center, date in legend. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | GLORIA IN EXCELSIS DEO 1738 3 |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1738 - - |
| Numisquare ID | 8560473490 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This 1738 3 Kreutzers coin from the Canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden reflects the autonomous status of Swiss cantons within the Holy Roman Empire. Governed by its Landsgemeinde, Appenzell Innerrhoden, a staunchly Catholic half-canton, exercised its sovereign right to mint currency. This billon denomination was vital for local commerce, underscoring the canton's self-governance and economic independence in a decentralized monetary era.
Artistry: The engraver for this regional issue remains unrecorded, typical for cantonal coinage of the period. The design adheres to a provincial Baroque style, prioritizing functional clarity. The obverse prominently features the Appenzell bear rampant, the canton's heraldic symbol, often within a simple border. The reverse displays the denomination "3 KREUTZER" and the date "1738," usually arranged symmetrically, sometimes with stars or a cross, reflecting traditional Swiss numismatic motifs.
Technical/Grading: Struck in billon, a low-silver alloy, this 3 Kreutzers piece is prone to accelerated wear and environmental degradation. Key high-points for grading include the bear's head and paws on the obverse, and the clarity of numerals and lettering on the reverse. Technical strike qualities vary; planchets were often irregular, and strikes could be weak or off-center, leading to partial legends or flattened details. Corrosion and surface pitting are common on billon issues, impacting overall preservation.