Neuchatel 1789 1/2 batzen
This specimen was lot 3451 in Sincona sale 64 (Zürich, June 2020), where it sold for 300 CHF (about US$376 including buyer's fees). The catalog description[1] noted,
"SWITZERLAND | Neuenburg/Neuchâtel | Fürsten von Neuchâtel. Friedrich Wilhelm II. 1786-1797. Halbbatzen 1789, Neuchâtel. Selten in dieser Erhaltung. Fast FDC. (principality of Neuchatel, Frederick William II, 1786-97, half batzen of 1789, Neuchatel mint. Rare in this condition, About uncirculated.)"
The canton of Neuchâtel issued a variety of coins during the eighteenth century while the county was under Prussian administration. This type was struck 1788-94 and is not rare. It was accompanied by a half kreuzer and four kreuzer (batzen). The 1788 is a rare date and was long assumed to be a pattern. The reverse motto, "᛭ SUUM ᛭ 1792 ᛭ CUIQUE ᛭", translates as "To each his own".
Recorded mintage: unknown.
Specification: 1.7 g, silver, 21 mm diameter, this specimen: 1.79 g.
Catalog reference: KM 47, D.T. 1000a, HMZ 2-711b.
- [1]Richter, Jürg, Sincona sale 64: Swiss Coins and Medals, Zürich: SINCONA AG, 2020.
- Michael, Thomas, Standard Catalog of World Coins, 1701-1800, 7th ed., Iola, WI: Krause Publications, 2016.
- Richter, Jürg, and Ruedi Kunzmann, Neuer HMZ-Katalog, Band 2: Die Münzen der Schweiz und Liechtensteins 15//16. Jahrhundert bis Gegenwart, Regenstauf, Germany: H. Gietl Verlag GmbH, 2006.
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