Commemorative thaler (off-metal strike in tin), 1645, death of Albert II (1640-44), Duchy of Saxe-Eisenach, Germany
Jehovah's name in rayed sun above bust of Albrecht, inner initials, CORONAM VITÆ ACCIPE
A.H.Z.-S.I.C.V.B. // Latin inscription in eight lines:
NAT : ALTENB :
D . 27 . IVL · 1599 INOPI
NE SED PIE DENATVS
ISENACI D 20 . DEC : 1644 .
HVMATVS IBID . 7 MARTII
1645 FAMILIAM · MOESTAM
PATRIAM AFFLICTAM
RELINQVENS
41mm, 21.0 grams. For silver: Numista# 268795; Dav. #7415; KM# 5; Schnee# 397
Extremely rare off-metal strike of a rare silver commemorative thaler, seemingly in tin with original red patina. These off-metal strikes were either intended as a cheaper version of the commemorative coin, or (more likely) a mint trial strike, with the dies tested in soft base metal prior to use. I've bought it many years ago, its been residing in my personal collection until now.