© Fritz Rudolf Künker GmbH & Co. KG, Osnabrück and Lübke & Wiedemann KG, Leonberg
© Fritz Rudolf Künker GmbH & Co. KG, Osnabrück and Lübke & Wiedemann KG, Leonberg
Thaler - Charles of Lorraine as cardinal of Lorraine
| Silver | 28.65 g | - |
| Issuer | Bishopric of Metz (French States) |
|---|---|
| Cardinal | Charles I of Lorraine (1547-1574) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1557-1559 |
| Value | 1 Thaler |
| Currency | Thaler (1500-) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 28.65 g |
| Shape | Round |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-04 |
| Numista | N#334359 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Full-length figure of Saint Stephen, nimbate and facing forward, holding palm in right hand and stone in left, within tall double oval frame, within beaded inner circle. Date and mintmaster's initial in exergue.
Script: Latin
Lettering:
★ S · STEPHANVS ★ ★ PROTHOMAR ★
1558
B
Unabridged legend: Sanctus Stephanus prothomartyr
Translation: Saint Stephen, first martyr.
Comment
This is the mint mark of Hugues Courcol, Master of the Nancy ducal mint.
Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it was minted during a time of religious turmoil in Europe, particularly in the Bishopric of Metz, which was a disputed territory between the Holy Roman Empire and the Kingdom of France. The coin features Charles of Lorraine as the cardinal of Lorraine, indicating the influence of the Catholic Church in the region. Despite the religious tensions, the coin was still used as a standard circulation coin, highlighting the importance of trade and commerce during this period.
