Lot 689
German States -- Saxe-Gotha-Altenburg. Taler, 1776. Dav-2725; Mersb-3280; Schnee-533; Cr-40. Ernst II Ludwig, 1772-1804. Mintmaster, Theodor Stockman. Head right with crane below. Reverse: Crowned arms in sprays with divided date above. Beautifully toned in shades of olive green, yellow, russet and blue. NGC graded MS-63.
Despite the many conventions held to sort out German monetary confusion, unity was only achieved in 1871 by the creation of the German Empire. During the early part of the 19th century, the number of states and free cities issuing coins was much reduced. After the Napoleonic era, in 1815, the number was down to about 30. By 1871 this number was further reduced to about a dozen, with Prussia having absorbed most of them. Here is not only a beautiful coin but also one that should be of particular interest to American collectors, for its date.
Estimated Value $1,500 - 2,000.
Ex Irving Goodman Collection.
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| Realized $1,725 |
