Holy Roman Empire, County of Tyrol (Hall) 1 Thaler ND (1577-95) - Ferdinand II as Archduke (1564-1595) A charming coin with vibrant luster and sophisticated toning, nearly mint state save for a minor scratch. Obw.: Crowned and armored half-length bust right, holding sceptre and sword-in-scabbard; “FERDINAND:D:G:ARCHIDVX:AVSTRIÆ”. Rev.: Crowned Coat of arms within Collar of the Order of Golden Fleece; “DVX·BVRGVNDIÆ - COMES·TIROLIS
Numismatic and Historic Overview of the RDR/Austria Taler Erzherzog Ferdinand (1564-1595), Hall AU
Introduction:
The coin under discussion is an Austrian Taler from the reign of Archduke Ferdinand II of Tyrol, who ruled from 1564 to 1595. Minted in Hall, this coin is cataloged as Dav# 8097, made of silver with a weight of 28.55 grams, and is graded AU (About Uncirculated), indicating it has seen very little circulation wear.
Historical Context:
Archduke Ferdinand II of Tyrol was a significant figure during the late Renaissance period, known for his interest in art, science, and the expansion of his territories' mining operations, particularly in the Tyrolean region. The Hall mint was particularly important due to its proximity to the rich silver mines of Schwaz, which played a pivotal role in the economic prosperity of the Habsburg domains during this period.
The Coin:
Design: The obverse of the coin typically features a crowned and armored bust of Archduke Ferdinand, facing right, holding a scepter and with his hand on the hilt of his sword. The reverse usually displays the Habsburg coat of arms surrounded by a chain of the Golden Fleece. The inscriptions on the coin would commonly read variations of "Ferdinandus II D G Archidux Austriae" for the obverse and "Comes Tirolis" for the reverse, reflecting his titles. Mint Mark and Dating: The coin bears no date, which was common for many coins of this era, often referred to as "o.J." for "ohne Jahr" (without year) in German. The mint mark "HALL" confirms its origin from the Hall mint in Tyrol. Material and Weight: Silver was the primary metal for such coins due to its abundance in Tyrol, and the weight of 28.55 grams is consistent with the standards for a taler at the time, known for their reliability in weight and purity. Condition (AU): Being in AU condition, this coin would show light wear on the highest points, with most of the original mint luster still present. This grade is highly desirable among collectors for its near-mint state.
Numismatic Significance:
Rarity and Value: Although not excessively rare, finding a Taler from this period in AU condition significantly elevates its value due to the preservation of detail and the historical narrative it carries. The coin's value is also influenced by its historical significance and the condition in which it has been preserved. Collector's Interest: Collectors of Austrian coins, particularly from the Habsburg era, find pieces like this compelling due to their historical resonance. The coin not only represents the economic activities of the period but also the cultural and political landscape under Ferdinand II’s rule. Historical Documentation: This taler serves as a physical testament to the economic prosperity and political influence of the Habsburg family in the Holy Roman Empire and the Austrian territories. It reflects the period's advancements in minting technology and the importance of the silver trade.
Conclusion:
This Austrian Taler from Archduke Ferdinand II's reign, minted in Hall, is more than just a piece of currency; it's a historical artifact that encapsulates the economic, cultural, and political nuances of late 16th-century Austria. Its condition in About Uncirculated adds to its allure for numismatists, providing a window into the past when Tyrol was a central hub for silver mining and minting in Europe. For those interested in further exploration, resources like CoinArchives offer detailed catalog information and auction records that can provide deeper insights into the coin's historical context and market value.