1 Albus - Hermann IV of Hessen ‘der Friedsame’ 1489 front 1 Albus - Hermann IV of Hessen ‘der Friedsame’ 1489 back
1 Albus - Hermann IV of Hessen ‘der Friedsame’ 1489 photo
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.

1 Albus - Hermann IV of Hessen ‘der Friedsame’

1489 year
Silver 1.88 g 24 mm
Description
Issuer
Archbishopric of Cologne (German States)
Archbishop
Herman IV of Hesse (1480-1508)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Year
1489
Value
1 Albus (Weißpfennig) (0.1)
Currency
Goldgulden (1350-1550)
Composition
Silver
Weight
1.88 g
Diameter
24 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#108635
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Four cruciform coats-of-arms.

Script: Latin

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a unique depiction of Hermann IV, also known as Hermann "the Peaceful," on its obverse side. Unlike many other coins from this time period, which often featured images of saints or other religious figures, this coin shows Hermann IV in a more secular context, with a crown on his head and a scepter in his hand. This suggests that the Archbishopric of Cologne, where the coin was minted, may have been trying to promote Hermann IV as a symbol of worldly power and authority, rather than purely religious authority.