Daalder 'Leeuwendaalder' Lion with shield divides date

Historical Context: The Zwolle Leeuwendaalder of 1637-1639 emerges from a pivotal period in the Dutch Republic's history, amidst the Eighty Years' War against Spain. Zwolle, a prominent Hanseatic city in Overijssel, exercised significant minting rights, contributing to the Republic's economy. The Leeuwendaalder, or 'Lion Daalder,' was a vital domestic and internationally recognized trade coin, particularly favored in the Levant and Eastern Europe due to its consistent silver content, facilitating Dutch mercantile expansion.

Artistry: The coin's design exemplifies the prevailing Dutch Renaissance numismatic aesthetic of the early 17th century. While specific engraver signatures for Zwolle are rarely documented, the craftsmanship reflects skilled anonymous artisans. The obverse prominently features the iconic rampant lion, derived from United Provinces heraldry, holding a shield likely bearing Zwolle's arms and ingeniously dividing the date. The reverse typically depicts an armored knight, a common motif symbolizing civic defense and sovereignty.

Technical/Grading: For optimal grading, prioritize the high-points of the obverse lion: definition of mane, facial features, and paw articulation. Crucially, shield details and clarity of the date numerals divided by it are paramount. On the reverse, pay attention to the knight's helmet, intricate armor details, and specific heraldic elements on the shield. Sharpness of surrounding legends on both sides, free from planchet imperfections or strike weakness, significantly enhances numismatic value.