Saxony Christian II Silver Thaler 1604 HB XF 40

Today, Saxony is a state in eastern Germany. However, when this coin was minted, the region was one of the Holy Roman Empire’s most important territories and was known as the Electorate of Saxony. In 1356, the region was made an Electorate by the empire, giving its ruler the privilege of voting in the election of the Holy Roman Emperor. Throughout the late medieval and early modern periods, the Electorate expanded its influence. The Electorate of Saxony was also the setting for the beginnings of the Protestant Reformation - Martin Luther nailed his Ninety-five Theses to the doors of the All Saints’ Church of Wittenberg in Saxony, denouncing certain aspects of the Catholic Church. The Electorate played a key role in the religious conflicts of the Reformation, officially adopting Lutheranism in 1525. Following the dissolution of the Holy Roman Empire in 1806, the Electorate became the Kingdom of Saxony.

Obverse: CHRISTIAN. II. D. G. SA. RO - IMP. ARCHIMAR. ET. ELEC. Half-length armored figure to right, holding sword over right shoulder and helmet with left hand, head divides date, small imperial orb at top, small shield of electoral Saxony arms at bottom.

Reverse: IOHAN:GEORG·ET·AVGVST:FRAT:ET·DVCES·SAXON HB Two small busts of Hans George I and August, facing each other, in circle. 14 small shields of arms around, shield of ducal Saxony at top

Reference: Dav 7561, KM 16