© Warszawskie Centrum Numizmatyczne s.j.
© Warszawskie Centrum Numizmatyczne s.j.
3 Grossus - Sigismund III Vasa Riga; short beard
| Silver | 2.41 g | 21.9 mm |
| Issuer | Duchy of Livonia |
|---|---|
| Duke | Sigismund III Vasa (1587-1629) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1588-1589 |
| Value | 3 Grossus = 1⁄12 Thaler |
| Currency | Thaler (1581-1629) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 2.41 g |
| Diameter | 21.9 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#86405 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 83% |
Reverse
Castle under crossed keys surrounded by stacked legend.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
III
15 - 88
GR - OS
ARG · TRIP
CIVI : RI
GE
Unabridged legend:
Grossus Argentea Triplex Civitatis Rigensis
Triple silver grossus of the city of Riga
Edge
Plain
Comment
Exact details of the bust may vary, and the exact lettering of the surrounding legend may vary.1588:
1) SIG : III · D : G : REX · PO : D : LI / GR OS - ARG · TRIP - CIVI : RI - GE
2) SIG : III · D : G : REX · PO : D : L / GR OS - ARG : TRIP - CIVI : RI - GE
1589:
1) SIG : III · D : G : REX · PO : D : LI / GR OS - ARG : TRIP - CIVI : RI - GE
An example of another coin of the same type:
© Heritage Auctions
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the 3 Grossus coin featuring Sigismund III Vasa with a short beard, minted in Riga between 1588 and 1589, is that it was made of silver, which was a valuable and durable material at the time. The use of silver in coinage was a symbol of the coin's value and authenticity, and it helped to ensure that the coin could be easily distinguished from counterfeit or lower-value coins. The fact that this coin was made of silver also speaks to the wealth and prosperity of the Duchy of Livonia during this time period.
