© Sincona AG
© Sincona AG
½ Batzen
| Billon | 1.8 g | 22 mm |
| Issuer | City of Lucerne |
|---|---|
| Period | Republic (1648-1798) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1742-1743 |
| Value | ½ Batzen = 1⁄60 Thaler |
| Currency | Thaler (1675-1746) |
| Composition | Billon |
| Weight | 1.8 g |
| Diameter | 22 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-07 |
| Numista | N#337888 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Cross fleury with flower stems in quarters.
Script: Latin
Lettering: CONCORDIA · RES · PARVÆ · CRESC · ❀
Unabridged legend: Concordia res parvae crescunt.
Translation: Unity makes strength.
Engravers: Thiébaud, Johann Haag
Comment
Mint masters:T: Thiébaud
I-H: Johann Haag
Varieties:
1742 Variety (Wielandt# 170)
Obverse lettering: · MON · NOVA · REIP · LUCERNENS · / T
Reverse lettering: CONCORDIA · RES · PARVÆ · CRESC · ❀
1743 Variety 1 (Wielandt# 171)
Obverse lettering: MON : NOVA : REIP : LUCERNENS ✤ / I H
Reverse lettering: CONCORDIA : RES : PARVÆ : CRESC : ❀
1743 Variety 2 (Wielandt# 171a)
Obverse lettering: · MON · NOVA · REIP · LUCERNENS ✤ / I H
Reverse lettering: CONCORDIA : RES : PARVÆ : CRESC · ❀
© Sincona AG
Interesting fact
The ½ Batzen coin from the City of Lucerne, made of Billon and weighing 1.8g, is interesting because it was issued during a time of great economic change in Switzerland. In the early 18th century, the country was transitioning from a primarily agrarian society to one that was more industrialized and trade-oriented. The introduction of this coin, which was valued at half the rate of a standard Batzen, reflects the growing need for smaller denominations to facilitate everyday transactions. Despite its relatively low value, the coin was still made of Billon, a copper and silver alloy, which suggests that it was still considered a valuable and reliable form of currency.
