Crown "Zonnekroon" - Charles V 1544-1555 front Crown "Zonnekroon" - Charles V 1544-1555 back
Crown "Zonnekroon" - Charles V 1544-1555 photo
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Crown "Zonnekroon" - Charles V

 
Gold (.929) 3.41 g 27 mm
Description
Issuer
Spanish Netherlands (Duchy of Guelders, Dutch States)
King
Charles V (1543-1555)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1544-1555
Value
1 Crown (21⁄10)
Currency
Gulden (1506-1581)
Composition
Gold (.929)
Weight
3.41 g
Diameter
27 mm
Shape
Round
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Coin alignment ↑↓
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#318331
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Cross with fleur-de-lis tips, alternating eagles and towers in the corners (symbolizing the German Empire and Spain). Guelders cross at top, date at end of legend.

Script: Latin

Lettering: ✤ DA· MIHI· VIRTVTE· CONTRA· HOS· TV· 1555

Unabridged legend: Da Mihi Virtutem Contra Hostes Tuos

Translation: Give Me Strenght Against Your Enemies

Comment

Also called Zonnekroon (Dutch) or Couronne d'Or au Soleil (French).
The reverse legend was the personal motto of Charles, derived from Psalm 18 and the words of King David.

Van der Chijs and de Witte mention that the original decree of October 29, 1540 authorizing this type valued it at 36 stuivers. As the gold: silver ratio changed during Charles' reign, the valuation in stuivers increased. Van Gelder and Hoc have it at 42 stuivers across all parts of the Spanish Netherlands.

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the "Zonnekroon" coin is that it was minted during the reign of Charles V, who was the last Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire and the first King of Spain. This coin was minted during a time of great change and upheaval in Europe, as the Protestant Reformation was gaining momentum and the Spanish Empire was expanding its territories. Despite the turmoil of the time, the "Zonnekroon" coin remains a testament to the craftsmanship and artistry of the mint masters of the Spanish Netherlands.

Price

Date Mintage VG F VF XF AU UNC
1544  160233 - - - - - -

Values in the table are based on evaluations by sales realized on Internet platforms. They serve as an indication only for Crown "Zonnekroon" - Charles V 1544-1555 coin.