The weekly iAuctions here at Stack’s Bowers are a great source for collectible coins within a reasonable budget! Every month (closing on the first Sunday of the month) these iAuctions will contain World and/or Ancient coins, with the inclusion of some notable highlights such as this piece, a very nice Hungarian Taler issued by the Holy Roman Emperor Matthias II. The Holy Roman Emperor Matthias, of the Habsburg Dynasty, ruled over the regions of Austria, Bohemia, Croatia, Germany and Hungary. This particular silver crown was intended for circulation in Hungary, as it was minted at the Kremnitz Mint.
The obverse design features an ornate right facing laureate bust of Matthias II, with the lengthy titles associated with his position as Holy Roman Emperor: “Matthias, by the grace of God, Holy Roman Emperor, Augustus, King in Germany, Hungary & Bohemia.” Two small arms divide the legend at three and nine o’clock. The reverse features the incredibly ornate Imperial double-headed eagle. The eagle dominates the design, and is shown holding a sword and scepter, with a large crown and globus cruciger above. On the eagle’s breast appears the coat of arms surrounded by the order of the Golden Fleece. The outer legend conveys additional titles associated with Matthias, portrayed as: “Archduke of Austria, Duke of Burgundy, Margrave of Moravia and Count of Tyrol.” This lovely example features attractive toning with multi colored hues prominent near the edge.
Look for this and other numismatic pieces in our upcoming iAuctions. These are held every Monday to Sunday, with world numismatic items being included in the sales that end on the first Sunday of every month. Preview this impressive coin along with the rest of our iAuction items at the Browse Auctions link at www.StacksBowers.com. If you are interested in consigning your coins and paper currency for our iAuctions (whether a whole collection or a single rarity) be sure to contact one of our consignment directors by calling 800.458.4646.