3 Kreutzers - Thomas

Emittente Chur, Bishopric of
Anno 1554
Tipo Standard circulation coin
Valore 3 Kreuzer = 1 Groschen (1⁄30)
Valuta Groschen (1251-1565)
Composizione Silver
Peso 1.83 g
Diametro 21 mm
Spessore
Forma Round
Tecnica
Orientamento
Incisore/i
In circolazione fino al
Riferimento/i HMZ 1#2-385a
Descrizione del dritto Madonna and child above two shields and the last two digits of the year.
Scrittura del dritto
Legenda del dritto TOMAS * D * G * EPISCO * CVRI 54
Descrizione del rovescio Crown above double-headed eagle, value in orb on chest.
Scrittura del rovescio
Legenda del rovescio CAROLI * V * IMP ꜸG * P * F * DE
Bordo
Zecca
Tiratura 1554 - -
ID Numisquare 7629182390
Informazioni aggiuntive

Historical Context: The 1554 3 Kreutzers was issued by Bishop Thomas von Planta (1549-1565) of Chur. This mid-16th century period saw significant religious upheaval, with the Reformation challenging Catholic authority across the Holy Roman Empire. As an Imperial Estate controlling vital Alpine passes, Chur navigated complex political and religious landscapes. Issuing this silver denomination affirmed the Bishop's sovereign rights and autonomy amidst pressures to maintain the Catholic faith.

Artistry: The engraver, likely a local master, is unrecorded, but the coin exhibits late Gothic/early Renaissance elements common to regional Alpine mints. The obverse typically features a bust or armorial bearings of Bishop Thomas von Planta, often with miter and crozier, identifying the issuer. The reverse usually displays a cross, imperial eagle, or the denomination and date, reflecting a practical, regionally distinct aesthetic for circulating currency.

Technical/Grading: Struck in silver (1.83g, 21mm), this 3 Kreutzers often shows characteristics of manual striking. High-points for wear include the bishop's facial features or armorial crest on the obverse, and the eagle's head or central cross on the reverse. Technical qualities frequently include variable strike pressure, leading to flatness, and occasional off-centering. Planchet irregularities, such as minor cracks, are common for coinage of this period, impacting overall preservation.

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