Osnabrück, City of 1 Thaler - Gustav II Adolphus (Death, Swedish occupation)

Posted on: December 1, 2025

keywords: --- ### Introduction The 1 Thaler coin from Osnabrück, minted in 1633, stands out as a significant relic of European history. Featuring the likeness of Gustav II Adolphus, a prominent Swedish monarch, this coin encapsulates a brief yet impactful period of Swedish influence in Germany. Collectors and historians alike are captivated by this coin's rich narrative and exquisite craftsmanship, making it a prized piece in numismatic collections. ### Historical Background The 1 Thaler coin was issued in 1633 during a tumultuous period marked by the Thirty Years' War, a series of conflicts that ravaged Europe from 1618 to 1648. Gustav II Adolphus, King of Sweden, played a pivotal role in these wars, known for his military prowess and influence on Protestant territories. Osnabrück, a city in Germany, fell under Swedish occupation during this time, leading to the minting of this thaler as a token of the era's political and military shifts. The coin not only served as currency but also as a symbol of Swedish power and presence in the region. ### Design Features The 1 Thaler coin showcases intricate design elements that reflect its historical context. On the obverse side, the coin features a detailed bust of Gustav II Adolphus facing left. The depiction is characterized by a regal portrait that captures the king's commanding presence and leadership qualities. This design serves as a tribute to his role in shaping the course of European history. The reverse of the coin presents a six-line inscription, crowned with a regal emblem at the top and framed by the minting year at the bottom. This inscription provides insight into the coin's issuance and its significance during the Swedish occupation. The crown symbolizes authority and the legitimacy of Swedish influence over Osnabrück during this brief period. ### Technical Specifications The Osnabrück 1 Thaler is crafted from silver, a precious metal highly valued for its durability and aesthetic appeal. Weighing 28.80 grams and measuring 43.00 millimeters in diameter, the coin exhibits a substantial presence, characteristic of thalers of this era. The use of silver not only enhances the coin's physical beauty but also its historical value, reflecting the economic conditions and minting practices of the time. ### Collectible Value As a collectible, the 1 Thaler coin from Osnabrück holds significant value for numismatists and historians. Its rarity and historical context make it a sought-after piece in collections focusing on European and Swedish history. The coin's condition, provenance, and historical importance contribute to its market value, often commanding high prices at auctions and private sales. Collectors prize this coin not only for its monetary worth but also for its narrative, which offers a tangible connection to a pivotal era in European history. ### Conclusion In summary, the 1 Thaler coin from Osnabrück, featuring Gustav II Adolphus, is a remarkable artifact that offers insight into the complex historical dynamics of 17th-century Europe. Its exquisite design and historical relevance make it a prized possession for collectors and a valuable study object for historians. This coin not only represents a significant period of Swedish influence in Germany but also serves as a lasting testament to the enduring legacy of Gustav II Adolphus and the turbulent times of the Thirty Years' War. Whether viewed as a piece of art or a historical document, this thaler remains an enduring symbol of a bygone era.

[SEO TITLE]: Discover the 1 Thaler Coin from Osnabrück Featuring Gustav II Adolphus [SEO DESCRIPTION]: Explore the historic 1 Thaler coin from Osnabrück, 1633, in silver. [KEYWORDS]: 1 Thaler, Gustav II Adolphus, Osnabrück coin, silver thaler, 1633 coin, Swedish occupation, collectible coin

Introduction

The 1 Thaler coin from Osnabrück, minted in 1633, stands out as a significant relic of European history. Featuring the likeness of Gustav II Adolphus, a prominent Swedish monarch, this coin encapsulates a brief yet impactful period of Swedish influence in Germany. Collectors and historians alike are captivated by this coin's rich narrative and exquisite craftsmanship, making it a prized piece in numismatic collections.

Historical Background

The 1 Thaler coin was issued in 1633 during a tumultuous period marked by the Thirty Years' War, a series of conflicts that ravaged Europe from 1618 to 1648. Gustav II Adolphus, King of Sweden, played a pivotal role in these wars, known for his military prowess and influence on Protestant territories. Osnabrück, a city in Germany, fell under Swedish occupation during this time, leading to the minting of this thaler as a token of the era's political and military shifts. The coin not only served as currency but also as a symbol of Swedish power and presence in the region.

Coin Images

Coin obverse image Obverse

Coin reverse image Reverse

Design Features

The 1 Thaler coin showcases intricate design elements that reflect its historical context. On the obverse side, the coin features a detailed bust of Gustav II Adolphus facing left. The depiction is characterized by a regal portrait that captures the king's commanding presence and leadership qualities. This design serves as a tribute to his role in shaping the course of European history. The reverse of the coin presents a six-line inscription, crowned with a regal emblem at the top and framed by the minting year at the bottom. This inscription provides insight into the coin's issuance and its significance during the Swedish occupation. The crown symbolizes authority and the legitimacy of Swedish influence over Osnabrück during this brief period.

Technical Specifications

The Osnabrück 1 Thaler is crafted from silver, a precious metal highly valued for its durability and aesthetic appeal. Weighing 28.80 grams and measuring 43.00 millimeters in diameter, the coin exhibits a substantial presence, characteristic of thalers of this era. The use of silver not only enhances the coin's physical beauty but also its historical value, reflecting the economic conditions and minting practices of the time.

Collectible Value

As a collectible, the 1 Thaler coin from Osnabrück holds significant value for numismatists and historians. Its rarity and historical context make it a sought-after piece in collections focusing on European and Swedish history. The coin's condition, provenance, and historical importance contribute to its market value, often commanding high prices at auctions and private sales. Collectors prize this coin not only for its monetary worth but also for its narrative, which offers a tangible connection to a pivotal era in European history.

Conclusion

In summary, the 1 Thaler coin from Osnabrück, featuring Gustav II Adolphus, is a remarkable artifact that offers insight into the complex historical dynamics of 17th-century Europe. Its exquisite design and historical relevance make it a prized possession for collectors and a valuable study object for historians. This coin not only represents a significant period of Swedish influence in Germany but also serves as a lasting testament to the enduring legacy of Gustav II Adolphus and the turbulent times of the Thirty Years' War. Whether viewed as a piece of art or a historical document, this thaler remains an enduring symbol of a bygone era.

Nuremberg, Free imperial city of 6 Ducats - Gustav II Adolphus

Nuremberg, Free imperial city of 5 Ducats - Gustav II Adolphus

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