Groat - Charles III (pretender) 1705-1706 front Groat - Charles III (pretender) 1705-1706 back
Groat - Charles III (pretender) 1705-1706 photo
© Roma Numismatics Limited

Groat - Charles III pretender

 
Silver (.931) 2.9 g 20 mm
Description
Issuer
Principality of Catalonia (Spanish States)
King
Charles III (1705-1714)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
1705-1706
Value
1 Groat (3⁄20)
Currency
Libra
Composition
Silver (.931)
Weight
2.9 g
Diameter
20 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-07
References
Numista
N#107583
Rarity index
93%

Reverse

Long cross divides legend, annulet in first and fourth angles, three bezants in second and third angles. Legend around, between beaded circles.

Script: Latin

Lettering: BARCINO CIVI 1706

Translation: City of Barcelona

Comment

Karl Franz von Habsburg (1685–1740). Following the death of Carlos II, he claimed the throne of Spain in the War of the Spanish Succession (1700-1714) against Philip of Anjou, grandson of Louis XIV. Ruled Catalunya as Carlos III (1705-1714). In 1711 he succeeded his elder brother, Joseph I as Holy Roman Emperor (as Karl VI), King of Bohemia (as Karl II), King of Hungary, Croatia and Serbia and Archduke of Austria (as Karl III). Father of Maria Theresa.

 

year 1706/5 and 1706

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it was minted during a time of political turmoil in Spain. Charles III was a pretender to the Spanish throne and the Principality of Catalonia was a region that supported his claim. The coin's minting was likely a way for Charles III to assert his authority and legitimacy as a ruler, despite the fact that he never actually ruled over the entire Spanish Empire.