This is one of Sweden's plate money pieces — a distinctly Swedish solution to a distinctly Swedish problem. When copper became Sweden's monetary standard in the 17th century, the metal's low value relative to silver meant coins had to be issued at face-weight equivalence. The result was slabs of copper so massive they were practically architectural. The 4 Daler denomination was among the largest produced, and moving any quantity of them required a cart.
Charles XI was thirteen years old in 1663, ruling under a regency following his father's death at Fredriksten. The plate money issued in his name during this period reflects the regency council's administration rather than any personal monetary policy of the young king.
This is one of Sweden's plate money pieces — a distinctly Swedish solution to a distinctly Swedish problem. When copper became Sweden's monetary standard in the 17th century, the metal's low value relative to silver meant coins had to be issued at face-weight equivalence. The result was slabs of copper so massive they were practically architectural. The 4 Daler denomination was among the largest produced, and moving any quantity of them required a cart.
Charles XI was thirteen years old in 1663, ruling under a regency following his father's death at Fredriksten. The plate money issued in his name during this period reflects the regency council's administration rather than any personal monetary policy of the young king.