1 Schilling - Thomas Schöning (Koknese; fancy cross; bumpy top and bumpy bottom) 1536 front 1 Schilling - Thomas Schöning (Koknese; fancy cross; bumpy top and bumpy bottom) 1536 back
1 Schilling - Thomas Schöning (Koknese; fancy cross; bumpy top and bumpy bottom) 1536 photo
© Haljak Coin Auction

1 Schilling - Thomas Schöning Koknese; fancy cross; bumpy top and bumpy bottom

1536 year
Billon (.1875 silver) 1.16 g 18 mm
Description
Issuer
Archbishopric of Riga (Livonian Confederation)
Archbishop
Thomas Schöning (1528-1539)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Year
1536
Value
1 Schilling
Currency
Schilling (1422-1563)
Composition
Billon (.1875 silver)
Weight
1.16 g
Diameter
18 mm
Thickness
0.7 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#140699
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Crossed cross and crosier surrounded by legend.

Script: Latin

Lettering: MO · ECLESIE · RIGENSIS :

Translation:
Moneta Ecclesiae Rigensis
Coin of the Church of Riga

Edge

Plain

Comment

In 1525, the silver content of the Schilling was dropped from .281 to .1875. As a result, the subdivisions changed: after 1525, there were 12 Schillings in 1 Ferding rather than the usual 9.

The exact lettering of the surrounding legend may vary.

1536:
1) MO : ARCH : EPIS : RI : 1536 · / MO · ECLESIE · RIGENSIS :
2) MO : ARCH : EPIS : RI : 1536 . / MO . ECLESIE . RIGENS

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it was made of Billon, which is an alloy of silver and other metals, in this case, .1875 silver. This was a common practice during that time period, as pure silver was too soft to be used for coins that were meant to be used in everyday transactions. The use of Billon allowed for a stronger and more durable coin, while still maintaining some of the value of silver.