⅔ Thaler

Historical Context: The 1674-1675 ⅔ Thaler from Magdeburg marks a critical era for the city, recovering from the Thirty Years' War. Though an Imperial Free City, Magdeburg’s destiny was increasingly linked to Brandenburg-Prussia. This coinage asserts Magdeburg's civic autonomy and economic resilience within the fragmented Holy Roman Empire. Issuing fractional thalers like this underscores the city's need for stable currency in daily commerce and its commitment to post-war reconstruction and financial re-establishment.

Artistry: The engraver for this issue is typically anonymous, common for German civic mints of the period. Stylistically, the coin reflects late Renaissance and early Baroque influences, favoring a robust, functional design over elaborate courtly ornamentation. Magdeburg coinage often features the city's arms—a maiden on a wall, perhaps with St. Maurice—on one side, and an imperial eagle or a legend-filled field on the reverse, clearly stating denomination and date. The aesthetic emphasizes legibility and civic identity.

Technical/Grading: Key high-points for grading include the raised elements of the city arms, such as the maiden's head or architectural details, and the breast feathers or crown of any imperial eagle. Legends and the date, often struck with less pressure, are susceptible to weakness. These coins were frequently struck on somewhat irregular flans; a full, even strike across the entire surface, especially at the periphery, is a desirable but rare attribute. The 13.56 gram weight is crucial for assessing authenticity and wear.