Rare half-thaler struck at the Brzeg mint during the reign of Joseph I Habsburg (1705–1711).
This denomination, encountered far less frequently than full thalers, represents an interesting and sought-after issue within Silesian coinage of the period. The reverse bears the initials CB of Christoph Brettschneider, mintmaster and warden of the Brzeg mint between 1666 and 1713.
The obverse depicts the laureate bust of the emperor facing right, with elaborate wig and richly decorated armour adorned with the order on the chest. The reverse features the majestic double-headed imperial eagle with the Habsburg arms on its breast, topped by the imperial crown. The composition belongs among the most elegant and representative designs of early 18th-century Silesian half-thalers.
The specimen retains a well-preserved relief of the portrait and armorial detail. The surfaces show natural circulation marks – small edge knocks, light friction in the fields, and slight wear on the emperor’s cheek and shoulder. The reverse displays sharp details of the eagle and arms, enhanced by a delicate patina in shades of grey with a faint greenish hue.
A rare and highly attractive half-thaler of Joseph I from the Brzeg mint, appearing only occasionally on the auction market. An excellent opportunity to enhance a collection of Silesian coinage or Habsburg half-thalers – highly recommended!
Silesia, Habsburg rule, Joseph I (1705-1711), Thaler 1705, Brieg mint
Obverse: bust of the ruler, right
IOSEPHVS D G RO-IMP S A GE H B REX
Reverse: under the crown, the two-headed Imperial Eagle with a five-field heraldic shield on its chest
ARCHIDVX AVST-DVX BVRG E SILE 17-05
Diamter 35 mm, weight 14.21 g
