6 Grote

Historical Context: The 1857 6 Grote was issued by the Free Hanseatic City of Bremen, a significant trading hub in northern Germany. This era predates the full unification of Germany, allowing Bremen to maintain its sovereign right to issue coinage. As an independent city-state, Bremen's currency underscored its economic autonomy and pivotal role in regional commerce, with the Grote serving as a traditional unit within its monetary system amidst a complex landscape of German state currencies.

Artistry: The design reflects the neoclassical or late Biedermeier aesthetic common in German coinage of the mid-19th century. While a specific engraver is often unrecorded, the style prioritizes clarity and civic symbolism. The obverse typically features the distinctive Bremen coat of arms, a crowned imperial eagle with a key, symbolizing its imperial immediacy. The reverse displays the denomination and date encircled by a wreath, a common motif signifying value and prosperity.

Technical/Grading: Struck in billon with a .494 silver fineness, this 2.92-gram, 20-millimeter coin presents specific grading considerations. High-points for wear are typically the eagle's crown and breast feathers on the obverse, and the delicate wreath details on the reverse. Billon coinage of this era often exhibits variable strike quality, with softer metal leading to areas of weakness, particularly in finer details or legends, necessitating careful examination for optimal condition.