1 Albus 1649-1681 front 1 Albus 1649-1681 back
1 Albus 1649-1681 photo
© M. Sander

1 Albus

 
Silver 1 g 17 mm
Description
Issuer
Free imperial city of Frankfurt (German States)
Period
Free City (1372-1866)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1649-1681
Value
1 Albus = 8 Heller (1⁄60)
Currency
Thaler
Composition
Silver
Weight
1 g
Diameter
17 mm
Shape
Round
Orientation
Medal alignment ↑↑
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#71916
Rarity index
80%

Reverse

Cross date and denomination within circle, laurel wreath surrounding.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
ALBUS
1656

Comment

KM# 108.1 with obverse Legend REIPUB: FRANCOFURT
KM# 108.2 with obverse Legend REIPVB FRANCOFURT

Interesting fact

The Albus coin from the Free Imperial City of Frankfurt was minted during a time of great economic and political change in Europe. The coin was introduced in 1649, just a few years after the Thirty Years' War, which had devastated much of Germany and disrupted trade routes. Despite these challenges, the Albus coin became a widely used currency in the region and remained in circulation for over 30 years. Its design featured the coat of arms of Frankfurt, which included a shield with three roses, and the inscription "FRANCORUM LIBERA CIVITAS" (Free City of Frankfurt). The coin's silver content and standardized design made it a reliable and valuable form of currency, and it played an important role in facilitating trade and commerce in the region during a time of great change and upheaval.