½ Batzen ND (1548-1605) front ½ Batzen ND (1548-1605) back
½ Batzen ND (1548-1605) photo
© ayers_zurich (CC BY-NC-SA)

½ Batzen ND

 
Billon 1.6 g 23 mm
Description
Issuer
Monetary Union of Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden (Old Swiss Confederacy)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1548-1605
Value
½ Batzen (1⁄80)
Currency
Thaler (1548-1605)
Composition
Billon
Weight
1.6 g
Diameter
23 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Coin alignment ↑↓
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-08
References
Numista
N#360970
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Cross pattée within a pearl circle.

Script: Latin

Lettering: ✠ SOLI ✠ DEO ✠ GLORIA

Translation: Glory to God alone.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the ½ Batzen coin from the Monetary Union of Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden (Old Swiss Confederacy) is that it was made of Billon, a metal alloy composed of silver and copper. This was a common practice during that time period, as it allowed for the creation of coins that were more durable and resistant to wear and tear than coins made of pure silver. The use of Billon in coinage also made it possible to produce coins with a lower silver content, which helped to reduce the cost of production and make the coins more affordable for everyday transactions.