Saxony 1658 1/2 thaler KM-458
This specimen was lot 74590 in Stack's Bowers Collectors Choice sale (Costa Mesa, CA, September 2024), where it sold for $336. The catalog description[1] noted, "GERMANY. Saxony. 1/2 Taler, 1658. Johann Georg II. NGC EF-45. A well-centered coin with full reverse legend visible. A wholesome example of the type exhibiting no notable surface marks and sporting an even, dark gray tone." This type was struck 1657-58 to commemorate the elector's term as vicar on the death of emperor Ferdinand III in 1657. The elector also issued a quarter thaler (KM 457), a single thaler (Dav-7630), a double thaler (Dav-LS398), a triple thaler (Dav-LS397), a quadruple thaler (Dav-LS396), a single ducat (KM 463) and a double ducat (KM 464) on this occasion. We may assume he thought it was a big deal. There is also KM 473, the regular issue half thaler.
Recorded mintage: unknown.
Specification: silver.
Catalog reference: KM-458.
- Craig, William D., Germanic Coinages: Charlemagne through Wilhelm II, Mountain View, CA: 1954.
- Cuhaj, George S., and Thomas Michael, Standard Catalog of World Coins, 1601-1700, 6th ed., Iola, WI: Krause Publications, 2014.
- [1]Orsini, Matt, Kyle Ponterio and Jeremy Bostwick, September 2024 World Collectors Choice Online Auction, Costa Mesa, CA: Stack's Bowers Galleries, Inc., 2024.
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