Germany (Mansfeld-Bornstedt) Thaler 1604 to 1607

During the times of the Holy Roman Empire, Germany was a collection of a large number of small states. Many of the leaders of these states formed coalitions and issued united coinage. These big old thalers are from the united townships of Mansfeld and Bornstedt in Central Germany, issued under the joint rule of Bruno II, Wilhelm I, Johann Georg IV and Volrat VI. The Latin inscription of 'COMI ET DOMI IN MANSF.' means 'Lord and Earl of Mansfeld'.

This is a subjective matter, but I think these coins are absolutely beautiful. The obverse (front) displays an impressive coat of arms with two helmets resting on it, an eagle perched on top of the right helmet. The reverse shows the archetypal design of Saint George slaying the Dragon, with a small imperial orb at the upper right. The coins were struck at the mint in Eisleben.

worn: $75 US dollars approximate catalog value
average circulated: $275
well preserved: $750
fully uncirculated: $1500

The nice example in our picture comes from Leipziger Munzhandlung in Germany where it sold for 280 euros (about $350 US dollars) during a 2014 auction. CoinQuest thanks Leipzig Muenzhandlung for use of their coin photo.

Please refer to our Important Terminology page found at the top left in order to properly interpret these catalog values.
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