© tdziemia (CC BY-NC-SA)
© tdziemia (CC BY-NC-SA)
½ Batzen
| Silver | 1.7 g | 22 mm |
| Issuer | Free city of Regensburg (German States) |
|---|---|
| Period | Free city (1245-1803) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1510-1516 |
| Value | ½ Batzen (1⁄60) |
| Currency | Thaler |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 1.7 g |
| Diameter | 22 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#297102 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 95% |
Reverse
Half-length bust of Saint Wolfgang, holding crozier in right hand, and model of church in his left.
Lettering: S: WOLFGANG ORA PRO N'
Translation: Saint Wolfgang, pray for us
Comment
Legend variants exist.Obverse: RATISPVRGI for 1510. RATISPON and RATISPONEN are also seen
Rev: PRON', PRO NO, PRON all exist at end of legend
Saint Wolfgang was a renowned bishop of Regensburg from 972-994 AD. The church in his hand is likely the pilgrimage church of St Wolfgang im Salzkammergut (present day Austria)
Interesting fact
The ½ Batzen coin from the Free City of Regensburg (German States) made of Silver weighing 1.7g is interesting because it was minted during a time of great economic and political change in Europe. The coin was issued between 1510 and 1516, a period when the Holy Roman Empire was facing challenges from the rising powers of the German states and the Protestant Reformation was gaining momentum. The coin's design, featuring the city's coat of arms and other symbols, reflects the independence and pride of the Free City of Regensburg during this time. Despite its small denomination, the coin played an important role in the local economy and is now a sought-after collector's item for numismatists.
