Catalog
| Issuer | Canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden |
|---|---|
| Year | 1738 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 9 Batzens (0.3) |
| Currency | Thaler (1737-1744) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 8.19 g |
| Diameter | 31 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | Jonas Thiébaud I |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#38, HMZ 2#36a, Divo/Tob17#782, SMK5 Apn#3 |
| Obverse description | Saint Maurice, standing, facing right, wearing armour and sword, holding flag in right hand and supporting shield with the coat of arms of Appenzell with left hand. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
S · MAURIT · PAT · REIP · APPENZELLENSIS · (Translation: Saint Maurice, patron of the Republic of Appenzell,) |
| Reverse description | Inscription in six curved lines within ornate cartouche. Winged cherub head with garlands above. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
ET FACTUS EST MIHI IN SALUT · EM · EX · 15 · VIIII · BATZEN · 1738 · I T (Translation: And [the Lord] has become my salvation, Exodus 15.) |
| Edge | Plain |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
1738 - - |
| Numisquare ID | 5644085420 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: Issued in 1738 by the Canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden, this 9 Batzens coin reflects the economic autonomy of Swiss cantons within the Old Confederacy. Appenzell Innerrhoden, a staunchly Catholic half-canton, governed itself through a Landsgemeinde. In an era predating the unified Swiss Franc, such cantonal issues were vital for local commerce, asserting the canton's right to mint currency. The 9 Batzens denomination was a significant fractional unit for daily transactions.
Artistry: The design of this 9 Batzens piece adheres to the conservative stylistic traditions of Swiss cantonal coinage of the early 18th century. While a specific engraver is typically anonymous for regional issues, the artistry reflects a local mint master. The obverse features the Appenzell bear, rampant within a shield, symbolizing the canton's identity. The reverse displays the denomination, date, and possibly a cross or other civic emblems, executed with clear precision.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver, 8.19 grams and 31 millimeters, this coin's technical qualities are consistent with cantonal minting. High-points for grading include the bear's fur details, the shield's outline, and the sharpness of lettering and date. Strike quality varies; some examples show weakness in peripheral areas. Strong, well-centered strikes with clear definition on the central devices are highly sought after by collectors.