SWEDEN. Riksdaler, 1534. Stockholm Mint. Gustav Vasa. NGC VF-30.
MB-48; Dav-8692; SM-106(99); Delzanno-7: Hagander-3; Appelgren-479; Bruun auction-370; Bruun-11443. Weight: 28.88 gms. "Crown" variation. This is the first Taler of Sweden, struck in the style and size of the Joachimstalers by the counts of Schlick. It also marks the transformation of Swedish coinage from medieval coinage. The enigmatic mintmark on the reverse, resembling an ear, is yet to be attributed to a mintmaster. Few pieces have survived to this day; most were probably melted down to produce Talers of inferior silver content, as the Swedish standard dropped from the then approximately 28 grams to 25.6 grams as early as 1542. While the coin does show signs of wear, the reverse clearly rises above the numeric grade, and the reddish-brown toning with hints of blue to the obverse enhances the details to make this a most pleasing example. As the first Taler of Sweden and from the King who secured Swedish independence the importance of this rare and coveted type cannot be overstated.
From the L. E. Bruun Collection. Ex: Countship of Brahesminde Collection (Private Sale - 1922). Ex: Johan Scharp Collection (Stockholm - 1851/1853) Lot # 165.

Estimate: $20000