Saxony 1608-HR 1/2 thaler
This specimen was lot 974 in Jean Elsen sale 165 (Brussels, June 2026), where it sold for €200 (about US$276 including buyer's fees). The catalog description[1] noted,
"ALLEMAGNE, SAXE, Christian II, Johann Georg Ier et August (1591-1611), AR demi-Taler, 1608 HR, Dresde. D/ B. cuirassé de Christian II à d., ten. une épée sur l'épaule. R/ B. cuirassés de Johann Georg et August f. à f. Griffes au revers. Très Beau. (Germany, electorate of Saxony, Christian II, John George I and August, 1601-11, silver half thaler of 1608, Dresden mint. Obverse: armored bust of Christian II right, holding a sword; reverse: facing armored busts of John George and August. Scratches on the reverse, Very Fine.)"
This type, struck 1601-11, shows Christian on the obverse and his brothers on the reverse. Christian II succeeded to the electorate in 1591, aged eight. Dominated by his mother, he lapsed into alcoholism and died of a heart attack, aged 27.
Recorded mintage: unknown.
Specification: 14.48 g, silver, 35 mm diameter, this specimen 12,32 g.
Catalog reference: KM 14, Kohl 102.
- Cuhaj, George S., and Thomas Michael, Standard Catalog of World Coins, 1601-1700, 6th ed., Iola, WI: Krause Publications, 2014.
- [1]Elsen, Philippe, et al., Vente Publique 165, Brussels: Jean Elsen et ses Fils S.A., 2026.
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