Lot 2323

Description

Transylvania, Sigmund Bathori, (1581-1602), silver taler, dated issue, 1589, (27.85 g), obv. SIGISMVNDVS* BATHORI, around, half length figure to right, holding sceptre, rev. *PRINCEPS* TRANSSYLVANAE* 1593* around, crowned arms with supporting figures, (D. 8802). Toned, extremely fine with edge flaw caused by being at the end of the silver bar, very rare.

Ex Prince Michael Andreevich of Russia (1920-2008) Collection. Transylvania did not fall to Turkish control but was forced to submit to Hungary to preserve itself. When Hungarian power collapsed in 1526, Transylvania survived as an independent principality until 1699, then it fell under Habsburg control. The abundance of gold and silver in the mines of Transylvania ensured a plentiful coinage which mostly used heraldic emblems for its designs, notably the arms of the House of Bathory. Sigismund Bathory (1581-1602) used a fine series of magnificent portraits.