Coins have often been a way to celebrate important figures, events, and cities. One such example is the Wismar Taler from 1673. This coin comes from the German city of Wismar, a place with a rich history and strong connections to the Holy Roman Empire. It is a rare and interesting piece of history, with fascinating details about its design, origin, and the era it came from. Stack’s Bowers Galleries is offering this rare coin in their upcoming L.E. Bruun Part II Auction in Zürich on March 15, 2025. Let’s explore the history behind the Wismar Taler and why it’s such an important item for collectors.
The City of Wismar: A Glimpse Into the Past
Wismar is a city located on the Baltic coast of Germany, close to the small island of Poel. It was founded in 1226 and became a prosperous city through its membership in the powerful Hanseatic League, which helped trade and industry flourish. Throughout history, Wismar was captured and controlled by different states, including Germany and Sweden.
The city came under Swedish control after the Peace of Westphalia in 1648, which ended the Thirty Years’ War. It remained under Swedish rule until 1803, when it was given to Mecklenburg-Schwerin. Despite changing rulers, Wismar kept its rights to mint coins, which was an important part of the city’s heritage. The city’s magistrates took pride in guarding these rights, even under Swedish rule, ensuring that most of the coins minted there featured the name of the Holy Roman Emperor, rather than the Swedish king.
The Wismar Taler of 1673: A Rare and Beautiful Coin
The Wismar Taler of 1673 is a fascinating piece of history. One of the most striking features of this coin is its design. On the reverse side of the coin, you’ll see the name and double-headed eagle of the Holy Roman Emperor, Leopold. The eagle dominates the reverse side of the coin, symbolizing the emperor’s power and authority.
On the obverse side, the coin shows a detailed image of the city’s patron saint, St. Lawrence. St. Lawrence was a Christian martyr who died in 258 AD. He is shown holding a gridiron in his left hand, which is a reference to his brutal death, where he was roasted on a giant gridiron. His cheerful attitude in the face of death led to his status as the patron saint of chefs, cooks, and even comedians.
Beneath the saint’s image are the city arms, which show a shield divided into two parts. One side features striped fields, while the other side features a crowned bull. The coin also bears the initials “H” and “R,” which stand for Hans Ridder, the mintmaster in Wismar from 1670 to 1674.
Why is the Wismar Taler So Special?
This particular Wismar Taler is very rare, and it is in excellent condition. The coin is graded as NGC AU53, which means it is in nearly uncirculated condition. Coins of this quality are not often available for sale, making this Wismar Taler an exciting find for collectors. The coin has not been offered in decades, and this specific piece could be one of the best examples to be made available in recent times.
The Wismar Taler is not only valuable because of its rarity and quality but also because of its historical significance. It represents a time when the city of Wismar was under Swedish control, yet still maintained its ties to the Holy Roman Empire. The design also tells the story of St. Lawrence’s martyrdom, a story that has been remembered for centuries.
What Makes This Auction So Important?
The L.E. Bruun Part II Auction, which will take place on March 15, 2025, in Zürich, is a highly anticipated event for collectors and history enthusiasts. This auction offers a rare opportunity to own an important piece of numismatic history, like the Wismar Taler. Stack’s Bowers Galleries, a trusted name in the world of coin auctions, will be presenting this item, ensuring that it will attract attention from collectors around the world.
Collectors who are interested in rare historical coins or in coins from specific periods will find this auction particularly exciting. The Wismar Taler is not just a coin, but a symbol of the city’s rich history and its connection to the Holy Roman Empire.
Conclusion: The Legacy of the Wismar Taler
The Wismar Taler of 1673 is a rare and beautiful coin that holds significant historical value. With its detailed design, showcasing St. Lawrence and the Holy Roman Emperor’s double-headed eagle, it is a reminder of the city’s importance in the past. The coin’s rarity and historical context make it a sought-after item for collectors, especially in excellent condition like this one. As part of the upcoming L.E. Bruun Part II Auction, this piece is sure to generate excitement among numismatists and history lovers alike. This auction represents a chance to own a piece of history that has been carefully preserved for centuries.
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