© Numismatik Lanz Auctions
© Numismatik Lanz Auctions
2 Kreuzers - Ferdinand II Graz
1624 year| Billon (.312 silver) | 1.3 g | 20 mm |
| Issuer | Austrian Empire |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Ferdinand II (1619-1637) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Year | 1624 |
| Value | 2 Kreuzers (1⁄30) |
| Currency | Thaler (1520-1754) |
| Composition | Billon (.312 silver) |
| Weight | 1.3 g |
| Diameter | 20 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#77457 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 93% |
Reverse
Shield of Styria (panther spitting fire) in a circle, a crown above divides the date, value below in the legend. Legend (starts 2h) for "Archidux Austriae Dux Burgundiae Styriae".
Script: Latin
Lettering:
ARCH AV (2) D B STYRI
16 24
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the 2 Kreuzers - Ferdinand II (Graz) 1624 coin from the Austrian Empire is that it was minted during a time of great economic and political change in Europe. The Thirty Years War had just begun, and the Austrian Empire was facing significant challenges in terms of financing its military efforts. As a result, the empire turned to debasing its currency, mixing silver with other metals like copper and billon (a mixture of copper and silver) to create coins that were lighter in weight but still had the same face value. This practice, known as "clipping," was a common technique used by governments during times of economic stress, but it ultimately led to inflation and a loss of trust in the currency. Despite these challenges, the 2 Kreuzers coin remains a valuable and sought-after collector's item today, with its unique blend of metals and historical significance making it a fascinating piece of numismatic history.
