½ Blan-Gros - Wenceslaus II 1st reign ND
| Silver | 1.51 g | - |
| Issuer | Duchy of Luxembourg (Luxembourg) |
|---|---|
| Duke | Wenceslas II the Lazy (1383-1388) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1383-1384 |
| Value | ½ Gros (1⁄80) |
| Currency | Florin (1353-1713) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 1.51 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#96082 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 95% |
Reverse
On the left, the Bohemian shield with the lion rounded, on the right that of Luxembourg, the lion rampant the left on a bureled field, above a crown. All surrounded by an inner pearled circle, the legend and an outer pearled circle.
Script: Latin (uncial)
Lettering: + MONETAˣ nOVAˣ LVCEMBVRGEnS'
Lettering (regular font): + MONETAˣ NOVAˣ LVCEMBVRGENS'
Translation: New currency of Luxembourg
Comment
Piece of the highest rarity, only 3 copies listed, undated, minted the Luxembourg mint.
This coin and its unit, Blan-Gros L#160-1, represent the first coin and can be dated quite accurately. Wenceslaus II becomes Duke of Luxembourg in December 1383 and in August 1384 he enters Luxembourg, this visit will have occasioned the striking of the new coin. This coin was probably struck in the beginning of 1384. (BV, pp. 233, 240-242 Weiller, p.210)
Source:
- the illustrations on this sheet come from the article of B de Jonghe, published in 1903 in the RBN, vol. LIX, p. 22
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a unique design, with the obverse side bearing the image of Wenceslaus II, Duke of Luxembourg, while the reverse side features the coat of arms of the Duchy of Luxembourg. This design was specifically chosen to symbolize the unity and strength of the Duchy during Wenceslaus' reign.
