Erfurt, City of ½ Thaler - Gustav Adolph II

Posted on: December 1, 2025

keywords: --- ## Introduction The ½ Thaler - Gustav Adolph II coin from Erfurt, minted in 1632, is a remarkable piece of numismatic history that encapsulates the rich cultural and political climate of 17th-century Europe. This silver coin not only carries the weight of its monetary value but also the legacy of Gustavus II Adolphus, a significant figure in European history. For coin collectors and history enthusiasts alike, the ½ Thaler offers a tangible link to the past, showcasing intricate design work and the historical context of its issuance. ## Historical Background Erfurt, a prominent city in the Holy Roman Empire, issued this coin during a tumultuous period marked by the Thirty Years' War. Gustavus II Adolphus, known as the Lion of the North, was the King of Sweden and a key military leader in this conflict. His involvement in the Thirty Years' War was instrumental in the Protestant cause, and his influence extended across Europe. The ½ Thaler coin, minted in 1632, the year of his death at the Battle of Lützen, serves as a poignant reminder of his impact. The coin's issuance reflects Erfurt's strategic importance and the city's alignment with Gustavus's endeavors. ## Design Features The design of the ½ Thaler is a testament to the artistry and symbolism typical of the period. **Obverse Design:** The obverse features a bust of Gustavus II Adolphus, depicted in a three-quarter profile facing right. The detailed engraving captures the nobility and determination of the Swedish monarch, emphasizing his prominent role in European affairs. **Reverse Design:** On the reverse, a crowned oval with four-fold arms encases a central shield, set within an elaborate baroque frame. Below this ornate composition, a wheel is strategically placed to divide the date. This intricate design not only highlights the coin's aesthetic appeal but also its connection to the city of Erfurt, symbolized by the wheel. ## Technical Specifications The ½ Thaler - Gustav Adolph II coin boasts a weight of 14.68 grams and is composed of silver, a precious metal commonly used in coinage of the era. While the specific diameter isn't detailed here, thalers typically measured around 40 mm. The use of high-quality silver ensures the coin's durability and enhances its allure to collectors. ## Collectible Value In the realm of numismatics, the ½ Thaler from Erfurt holds significant value due to its historical context and limited issuance. Coins from the Thirty Years' War period are particularly prized, and this piece, bearing the likeness of Gustavus II Adolphus, is a rare find. Its condition, provenance, and historical significance contribute to its market value. Collectors seeking to own a piece of 17th-century European history will find this coin a valuable addition to their collection, often fetching high prices at auctions and private sales. ## Conclusion The ½ Thaler - Gustav Adolph II coin from Erfurt is more than just a piece of currency; it is a historical artifact that offers a window into the past. Its association with a pivotal figure like Gustavus II Adolphus and its issuance during a significant historical period make it a coin of considerable importance. For collectors and history enthusiasts, this coin not only represents monetary value but also a rich historical narrative, making it a prized possession in any numismatic collection.

[SEO TITLE]: Discover the ½ Thaler Gustav Adolph II Coin from Erfurt, 1632 [SEO DESCRIPTION]: Explore the 1632 ½ Thaler from Erfurt, featuring Gustav Adolph II. [KEYWORDS]: ½ Thaler, Gustav Adolph II, Erfurt coin, 1632, silver coin, numismatics

Introduction

The ½ Thaler - Gustav Adolph II coin from Erfurt, minted in 1632, is a remarkable piece of numismatic history that encapsulates the rich cultural and political climate of 17th-century Europe. This silver coin not only carries the weight of its monetary value but also the legacy of Gustavus II Adolphus, a significant figure in European history. For coin collectors and history enthusiasts alike, the ½ Thaler offers a tangible link to the past, showcasing intricate design work and the historical context of its issuance.

Historical Background

Erfurt, a prominent city in the Holy Roman Empire, issued this coin during a tumultuous period marked by the Thirty Years' War. Gustavus II Adolphus, known as the Lion of the North, was the King of Sweden and a key military leader in this conflict. His involvement in the Thirty Years' War was instrumental in the Protestant cause, and his influence extended across Europe. The ½ Thaler coin, minted in 1632, the year of his death at the Battle of Lützen, serves as a poignant reminder of his impact. The coin's issuance reflects Erfurt's strategic importance and the city's alignment with Gustavus's endeavors.

Coin Images

Coin obverse image Obverse

Coin reverse image Reverse

Design Features

The design of the ½ Thaler is a testament to the artistry and symbolism typical of the period. Obverse Design: The obverse features a bust of Gustavus II Adolphus, depicted in a three-quarter profile facing right. The detailed engraving captures the nobility and determination of the Swedish monarch, emphasizing his prominent role in European affairs. Reverse Design: On the reverse, a crowned oval with four-fold arms encases a central shield, set within an elaborate baroque frame. Below this ornate composition, a wheel is strategically placed to divide the date. This intricate design not only highlights the coin's aesthetic appeal but also its connection to the city of Erfurt, symbolized by the wheel.

Technical Specifications

The ½ Thaler - Gustav Adolph II coin boasts a weight of 14.68 grams and is composed of silver, a precious metal commonly used in coinage of the era. While the specific diameter isn't detailed here, thalers typically measured around 40 mm. The use of high-quality silver ensures the coin's durability and enhances its allure to collectors.

Collectible Value

In the realm of numismatics, the ½ Thaler from Erfurt holds significant value due to its historical context and limited issuance. Coins from the Thirty Years' War period are particularly prized, and this piece, bearing the likeness of Gustavus II Adolphus, is a rare find. Its condition, provenance, and historical significance contribute to its market value. Collectors seeking to own a piece of 17th-century European history will find this coin a valuable addition to their collection, often fetching high prices at auctions and private sales.

Conclusion

The ½ Thaler - Gustav Adolph II coin from Erfurt is more than just a piece of currency; it is a historical artifact that offers a window into the past. Its association with a pivotal figure like Gustavus II Adolphus and its issuance during a significant historical period make it a coin of considerable importance. For collectors and history enthusiasts, this coin not only represents monetary value but also a rich historical narrative, making it a prized possession in any numismatic collection.

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