Batzen


Billon	2.49 g	24 mm

Description

Issuer	City of Bern
Period	Free imperial city (1353-1648)
Type	Standard circulation coin
Years	1617-1623
Value	1 Batzen (1⁄40)
Currency	Thaler (1612-1624)
Composition	Billon
Weight	2.49 g
Diameter	24 mm
Shape	Round
Orientation	Medal alignment ↑↑
Demonetized	Yes
Updated	2024-10-07

References

Numista	N#79352
Rarity index	73%

Reverse

Double-headed eagle

Script: Latin

Lettering: +BERCHT·DVX·ZERIN·FVNDATOR

Translation: Berthold, Duke of Zähringen, founder

Comment

Variations of the 1617 Batzen:
KM #13; Date divided by shield on obverse
KM #14; Date in legend on reverse.
KM #15; Date in legend on obverse.

Examples of varieties of this type:

• Variety 1618:
Obverse: + MONE · NO · REIPV · BERNENSIS 1618
Reverse: : BERCHTV · DVX · ZERIN · FVNDATOR
• Example #1 (2.49g, Good Very Fine):

© Image courtesy of SINCONA AG:
◦ Auctioned by SINCONA AG, Auction 30, 20 May 2016, Lot 3553. Sold for 300 CHF.

• Variety 1619:
Obverse: + MONE · NO · REIPV · BERNENSIS 1619
Reverse: + BERCHTV · DVX · ZERIN · FVNDATO
• Example #1 (2.33g, Extremely Fine - Uncirculated):

© Image courtesy of SINCONA AG:
◦ Auctioned by SINCONA AG, Auction 30, 20 May 2016, Lot 3554. Sold for 2,800 CHF.

Interesting fact

The Batzen coin from the City of Bern, minted between 1617 and 1623, is interesting because it was made of Billon, a metal alloy that was commonly used in the production of coins during that time period. Billon is a combination of silver and other metals, such as copper, tin, or lead, and it was valued for its durability and resistance to wear and tear. The fact that the Batzen coin was made of Billon suggests that it was intended for everyday use and circulation, and that it was designed to withstand the rigors of daily transactions. Additionally, the fact that it weighs 2.49 grams suggests that it was a relatively small coin, making it easy to handle and transport.