Lot 2299

Description

Germany, Magdeburg, silver taler of 24 groschen, 1623PS, (29.01 g), obv. MO. NO .CIUITATIS. MAGDEBURGENSIS., large city gates with towers breaking circle at upper left and right, maiden over gate, rev. FERDINANDUS. II. D.G. RO: IM: S: A: 16 23, crowned imperial double headed eagle with 24 ON orb on breast, mintmasters initials PS upper left, (D.5516, KM.255). Round, lightly toned, very fine, very scarce.

Ex Alan Jordan Collection.

The obverse legend states 'New money of the City of Magdeburg'. The type with imperial eagle and maiden over gate commenced from 1571. Magdeburg, located in north central Germany, had been a member of the Hanseatic League, however the usual burgher-ecclesiastical troubles resulted in virtually freeing the city from church domination, although it never became a free imperial city but it accepted the Reformation in 1524.