Rare 2 Thaler of Leopold I struck in Graz mint in 1678.
Variety with initials IAN of Johann Anton Nowak, mint master of Graz mint in 1670-1692.
Leopold I, Holy Roman Emperor from 1657 to 1705, reigned during a period marked by prolonged wars with both the Ottoman Empire and Louis XIV’s France. His coinage, especially the larger multiple talers, projected the power and prestige of the dynasty at a time when the empire faced significant external threats.
The double thalers of Leopold I are among the most impressive large silver issues of 17th-century Habsburg coinage. These massive coins were produced in limited numbers and served primarily a representative function — used as ceremonial pieces, presentation gifts, and symbols of imperial authority. Plenty of mint bloom.
Obverse: bust of the emperor in a laurel wreath, facing right
LEOPOLDVS DEI GRATIA ROM IMP SE AV GER HVN BOH REX
Reverse: under the crown, a multi-field coat of arms, surrounded by the Order of the Golden Fleece, under the coat of amrs there are an initials IA-N
ARCHI AVSTRIÆ DVX-BVRGVNDIÆ STYRIÆ EC
Diameter 56 mm, weight 58.06 g
