16 Öre "Klippingar" - Erik XIV (Type I) 1562 front 16 Öre "Klippingar" - Erik XIV (Type I) 1562 back
16 Öre "Klippingar" - Erik XIV (Type I) 1562 photo
© Classical Numismatic Group, Inc.

16 Öre "Klippingar" - Erik XIV Type I

1562 year
Billon (.375 silver) 22.79 g -
Description
Issuer
Sweden
King
Eric XIV (1560-1568)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Year
1562
Value
16 Öre (½)
Currency
Daler (1534-1593)
Composition
Billon (.375 silver)
Weight
22.79 g
Size
37.55 mm
Shape
Square
Technique
Klippe
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-07
References
Numista
N#106278
Rarity index
95%

Reverse

Crowned shield with the Three Crowns of Sweden divides date at both sides.

Script: Latin

Lettering: 15 6Z

Comment

The Swedish crown's coffers were soon emptied after Erik XIV had acceeded the throne in 1560. The silver coins contained gradually less silver through the 1560s and coin production was not quick enough to pay the country's expenses. Square-cut coins, called 'Klippes' reduced production time considerably and large numbers of Klippe coins with denominations 16, 8, 4 and 2 ore were produced 1562-68.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the 16 Öre "Klippingar" coin from Sweden, minted during the reign of Erik XIV in 1562, is that it was made of Billon, an alloy of silver and copper, which was a common practice in Europe during the 16th century. The use of Billon in coinage was a way to stretch the limited supply of silver, while still maintaining the value of the coin. This coin, in particular, contains 37.5% silver and weighs 22.79 grams.