© Hess Divo
© Hess Divo
½ Mark - Wilhelm von Fürstenberg Riga
| Silver (.578) | 5.61 g | 28 mm |
| Issuer | Livonian Order (Livonian Confederation) |
|---|---|
| Master | William of Fürstenberg (1557-1559) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1557-1558 |
| Value | ½ Mark = 18 Schilling |
| Currency | Schilling (1422-1561) |
| Composition | Silver (.578) |
| Weight | 5.61 g |
| Diameter | 28 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#140211 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 95% |
Reverse
Castle under crossed keys and surrounded by legend.
Script: Latin
Lettering: MONETA · NOVA · RIGENSI
Translation:
Moneta Nova Rigensis
New coin of Riga
Edge
Plain
Comment
The exact lettering of the surrounding legend may vary.1557:
1) WILHELM · VORSTEN · B · D · G · M · LI · / MONETA · NOVA · RIGENSIS
2) WILHELM · VORSTEN · B · D · G · M · LI · / MONETA · NOVA · RIGENSI
1558:
1) WILHELM · VORSTEN · B · D · G · M · LI · / MONETA · NOVA · RIGENSIS
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it was minted during a time of great turmoil and change in the region. The Livonian Order, a military order of German knights, had been present in the area since the 13th century, but in the 16th century, they were facing challenges from the neighboring Russian Empire and the Protestant Reformation. This coin was minted during the reign of Wilhelm von Fürstenberg, who was the Master of the Order from 1557 to 1558. Despite the challenges, the coin still bears the symbol of the Livonian Order, the Cross of the Order, on one side, and the coat of arms of Wilhelm von Fürstenberg on the other. This coin is a testament to the resilience and determination of the people of the region during a time of great upheaval.
