Batzen - Johann Franz von Schönau-Zell 1654-1655 front Batzen - Johann Franz von Schönau-Zell 1654-1655 back
Batzen - Johann Franz von Schönau-Zell 1654-1655 photo
© Sincona AG

Batzen - Johann Franz von Schönau-Zell

 
Billon 1.31 g 22 mm
Description
Issuer
Bishopric of Basel
Ruling authority
John Francis of Schönau (Johann Franz von Schönau-Zell) (1651-1656)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1654-1655
Value
1 Batzen (1⁄30)
Currency
Thaler (1575-1793)
Composition
Billon
Weight
1.31 g
Diameter
22 mm
Shape
Round
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-07
References
Numista
N#113860
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Madonna with child.

Script: Latin

Lettering: AVE·MARIA GRATIA·PLEN

Comment

Examples of varieties of this type:

1654 (1.73g, Good Very Fine):

© Image courtesy of Sincona AG
◦ Auctioned by SINCONA AG, Auction 53, 25 October 2018, Lot 6110. Sold for 2,300 CHF

1655 (0.99g, Fine):

© Image courtesy of Sincona AG
◦ Auctioned by SINCONA AG, Auction 53, 25 October 2018, Lot 6111. Sold for 450 CHF

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Batzen coin is that it was minted during a time of great turmoil in Europe, specifically during the Thirty Years War (1618-1648). Despite the conflict, the Bishopric of Basel was able to maintain its independence and continue minting its own coins, such as the Batzen. This coin is a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of the people of Basel during a period of great upheaval.