Duit - Anne van de Marck

Historical Context: Anne van de Marck (Anna von der Marck-Arenberg) served as Princess-Abbess of Thorn from 1612 to 1632, a pivotal period preceding and during the early stages of the Thirty Years' War. As an Imperial Abbey, Thorn was a sovereign principality within the Holy Roman Empire, directly subject to the Emperor. The issuance of copper duits in 1613-1614 was a significant assertion of this autonomy and sovereignty, providing essential low-denomination currency for local commerce. These coins underscore the Abbey's economic independence and the practical needs of its populace under Anne van de Marck's rule.

Artistry: The artistry of this duit, likely executed by an anonymous engraver, reflects the functional and heraldic traditions prevalent in early 17th-century European coinage. Stylistically, it aligns with the late Renaissance preference for clear, legible design, prioritizing identification over elaborate ornamentation for a common circulating coin. The obverse typically features a crowned monogram, most commonly an "A" for Anne, while the reverse prominently displays the name of the issuing authority, "THORN," often accompanied by the date and a simple cross or rosette, ensuring immediate recognition.

Technical/Grading: This copper duit, weighing 1.7 grams and measuring 20 millimeters, is a small, utilitarian coin. Key high-points susceptible to wear include the crown's details, the serifs of the monogram, and the outer edges of the legend. A strong strike, indicative of higher grades, will exhibit full definition on the crown and clear, well-formed lettering throughout. Due to the nature of production for such low-denomination copper issues, collectors frequently encounter variations in strike quality, including minor planchet imperfections or slight off-center strikes.