Authenticating The 1780 M. Therestad Austrian Coin: A Guide

The 1780 M Therestad coin, also known as the Maria Theresa Thaler (MTT), is a silver bullion coin that was first minted in 1741. It is named after Maria Theresa, who ruled Austria, Hungary, Croatia, and Bohemia from 1740 until her death in 1780. The coin has always been dated 1780, even after her death, and has been restruck in various mints around the world, making it challenging to determine its authenticity and value. This coin has a fascinating history and was widely used in world trade, especially in the Middle East and Africa, and remains a popular collector's item today.

Check the date: all Maria Theresa Thalers are dated 1780, the year of her death

Authentic Maria Theresa Thalers will always be dated to 1780, the year of Empress Maria Theresa's death. This is true even for coins minted after her death. The Thaler was first issued in Austria between 1740 and 1780, the years of Maria Theresa's rule, and was the currency of the Austrian Empire. However, the coin's use quickly spread beyond the bounds of Austria, becoming a popular trade coin in Europe, Africa, and Asia.

The Maria Theresa Thaler has been minted continuously since 1741 and is still produced by the Austrian Mint today. The coin is named after Maria Theresa, who ruled Austria, Hungary, Croatia, and Bohemia from 1740 to 1780. It is a silver bullion coin, containing 23.386-23.389 grams of fine silver. The obverse of the coin features a portrait of Maria Theresa, with the inscription "M. THERESIA D. G. R. IMP. HU. BO. REG.", which translates to "Maria Theresa, by the grace of God, Empress of the Romans, Queen of Hungary and Bohemia".

The Maria Theresa Thaler has been widely used not only as a coin but also as jewellery and an amulet. In some cultures, the coin is believed to possess apotropaic powers and is often worn as a pendant to ward off evil or bring good fortune. The coin has also been melted down and used as a source of silver for jewellery, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa.

The Maria Theresa Thaler is considered one of the most beautiful coins ever produced and is highly sought after by collectors. Its long history and wide use have made it a coin with a rich story unlike any other.

Examine the obverse: the inscription should read M. THERESIA D. G. R. IMP. HU. BO. REG

The Maria Theresa thaler (MTT) is a silver bullion coin that has been used in world trade continuously since it was first minted in 1741. It is named after Maria Theresa, who ruled Austria, Hungary, Croatia, and Bohemia from 1740 to 1780. The obverse of the coin features a portrait of the mature Empress wearing a widow's veil and a brooch with nine pearls. The inscription on the obverse, "M. THERESIA D. G. R. IMP. HU. BO. REG.", is in Latin and stands for "Maria Theresia, Dei Gratia Romanorum Imperatrix, Hungariae Bohemiaeque Regina", which translates to "Maria Theresa, by the grace of God, Empress of the Romans, Queen of Hungary and Bohemia". The "D.G." in the inscription, meaning "Dei Gratia", translates to "by the grace of God", and was a common feature of coins of the time.

The reverse of the coin reads "ARCHID. AVST. DUX BURG. CO. TYR. 1780 X", which is an abbreviation of "Archidux Austriae, Dux Burgundiae, Comes Tyrolis. 1780", meaning "Archduchess of Austria, Duchess of Burgundy, Countess of Tyrol, 1780". The "X" next to the year, sometimes referred to as a cross or saltire, indicates that the coin was struck following the coinage convention of 1753. The reverse also features the imperial double-headed eagle with the arms of Austria at the centre, surrounded by four quarters representing Hungary, Bohemia, Burgundy, and Burgau (Günzburg or Guenzburg).

The MTT is a type of Conventionsthaler, a standard that was adopted across the German-speaking world in 1751. The coin has been minted in many countries, including the UK (London and Birmingham), France, Italy, Germany, and Belgium, and remains popular in North Africa and the Middle East to this day. The MTT is also a "protected coin" in the United Kingdom under Part II of the Forgery and Counterfeiting Act 1981.

Inspect the reverse: it should feature the Habsburg Double Eagle and the text ARCHID. AVST. DUX BURG. CO. TYR. 1780 X

When inspecting the reverse side of the 1780 Austrian M Therestad coin, there are several key features to look out for. Firstly, the coin should display the Habsburg Double Eagle, a prominent symbol associated with the Habsburg Monarchy and a common feature on Austrian coinage of the time. This intricate design will showcase an eagle with two heads facing opposite directions, symbolizing the far-reaching power and influence of the Habsburg rulers. The eagle will likely have a detailed appearance, with each feather carefully engraved, adding to the overall authenticity and quality of the coin.

Below the eagle, you should find the Latin inscription "ARCHID. AVST. DUX BURG. CO. TYR. 1780 X". This text provides valuable information about the coin's origin and date. "ARCHID. AVST." stands for "Archiducis Austriae", which translates to "Archduke of Austria", indicating that the coin was issued by the Austrian archduchy. "DUX BURG. CO. TYR." refers to "Ducis Burgundiae Comes Tyrolis", meaning "Duke of Burgundy and Count of Tyrol", further emphasizing the territorial extent of Habsburg rule. The date "1780" is also incorporated into the inscription, denoting the year of minting.

The presence of this specific text is crucial to the authentication of the coin. Any deviations or errors in the Latin inscription may indicate a counterfeit or altered coin. Ensure that the spelling, abbreviations, and punctuation are accurate and consistent with the period. The use of Latin on Austrian coinage was common during the 18th century, reflecting the language's historical significance in the region.

Additionally, the overall design and condition of the reverse can provide further clues to its authenticity. The double eagle and inscription should be well-centered and struck with sharp details. Any signs of wear and tear should be consistent with the expected circulation and age of the coin. Minor scratches or nicks may be present, but deep gouges or excessive wear could indicate that the coin has been tampered with or is a forgery.

Look for the Burgundian cross: a saltire symbolising the debased standard of the thaler

The Maria Theresa thaler (MTT) is a silver bullion coin that has been used in world trade continuously since it was first minted in Austria in 1741. It is named after Maria Theresa, who ruled Austria, Hungary, Croatia and Bohemia from 1740 to 1780, and is depicted on the coin. The obverse of the coin is inscribed in Latin: "M. THERESIA D. G. R. IMP. HU. BO. REG.", which is an abbreviation of 'Maria Theresia, Dei Gratia Romanorum Imperatrix, Hungariae Bohemiaeque Regina'. The reverse reads "ARCHID. AVST. DUX BURG. CO. TYR. 1780 X", which is an abbreviation of 'Archidux Austriae, Dux Burgundiae, Comes Tyrolis. 1780'. The 'X' on the reverse is a saltire, or Burgundian cross, which was added in 1750 to indicate the new debased standard of the thaler.

The Maria Theresa thaler follows the Conventionsthaler standard of 1750, with a gross weight of 1/10 of a Vienna mark of silver, 5/6 fine. The coin has been minted in many countries, including the UK, France, Italy, Germany and Belgium, and was used as currency in large parts of Africa and the Middle East until after World War II. It was also formerly the currency of the Hejaz, Yemen, Aden Protectorate, Muscat and Oman on the Arabian Peninsula.

The MTT is widely available as a silver bullion coin or as silver proof. It is also popular in North Africa and the Middle East in its original form: a silver coin with a portrait of the ruler on the front and the Habsburg Double Eagle on the back. In the United Kingdom, the Maria Theresa thaler bearing the date of 1780 is a "protected coin" under Part II of the Forgery and Counterfeiting Act 1981.

Check the rim: the motto of her reign, Justitia et Clementia (Justice and Clemency), should be inscribed

When authenticating an Austrian M Therestad coin from 1780, one crucial step is to carefully examine the rim, specifically for the presence of the motto of Maria Theresa's reign: "Justitia et Clementia," which translates to "Justice and Clemency." This motto is a pivotal aspect of the coin's design and a testament to the values espoused by her reign. Here's a detailed guide on what to look for when inspecting the rim:

First, locate the rim itself. The rim is the raised outer edge of the coin that surrounds the design. On the Austrian M Therestad coin, the rim should be relatively well-defined and show minimal signs of wear, depending on the coin's overall condition. Next, start your inspection from the top of the rim and work your way clockwise. As you examine the rim, look for the inscription "IUSTITIA ET CLEMENTIA." This Latin motto should be clearly legible, with each word separated by a decorative element or symbol. The letters should be elegantly styled and proportionate to the size of the coin. Pay attention to the spelling and spacing of the words. Any deviations from the correct spelling or unusual gaps between letters could indicate a forgery.

The motto "Justitia et Clementia" symbolizes the balance between justice and mercy, reflecting Maria Theresa's approach to governance. The presence of this motto on the rim of the coin is a powerful reminder of her commitment to these principles during her reign. It is worth noting that the placement of the motto on the rim also serves a practical purpose. By inscribing it on the rim, this critical message is preserved even as the coin's surface wears down over time due to circulation. This ensures that the motto remains visible, continuing to convey Maria Theresa's values long after the coin's minting.

As you inspect the rim, also take note of the overall condition of the coin. Signs of wear and tear, such as scratches, nicks, or dents, may be more apparent along the rim. Light wear on the rim is normal and expected for a circulated coin. However, excessive wear or damage could indicate that the coin has been tampered with or is a forgery. Additionally, be cautious of any rim damage that appears unnatural or inconsistent with the coin's overall wear pattern. An authentic Austrian M Therestad coin should exhibit natural and uniform wear, indicating its genuine circulation and use in commerce during Maria Theresa's era.

Frequently asked questions