Hungary – Rudolf II, 1 Denar (Dénár), 1591 KB – Silver
KINGDOM OF HUNGARY – RUDOLF II (1576–1608). 1 Denar (Dénár), 1591-KB. Silver.
A genuine 16th-century Hungarian silver denar struck during the reign of Rudolf II, Holy Roman Emperor and King of Hungary.
The coin was minted in 1591 at Kremnica (KB), one of the historic and important minting centers of the Kingdom of Hungary. The 1 Denar was a small silver denomination used in everyday commerce during the late 16th century.
Design
Obverse: The crowned and quartered Hungarian coat of arms, incorporating the heraldic arms associated with Hungary and other territories under the Habsburg monarchy. The surrounding Latin inscription identifies Rudolf II and his royal titles.
Reverse: The Virgin Mary (Madonna) holding the infant Jesus, with the mintmark K-B on either side. The surrounding inscription refers to Mary as the Patroness of Hungary, an important religious symbol on Hungarian coinage of the period.
Historical Background
Rudolf II ruled Hungary during a turbulent period of European history marked by the Habsburg–Ottoman conflicts. His reign falls during the long struggle for control of Hungary between the Habsburgs and the Ottoman Empire.
This little silver denar would have circulated in Central Europe more than 430 years ago, making it a fascinating surviving piece of the economic and political history of Renaissance-era Hungary.
Coin Details
- Country: Kingdom of Hungary
- Ruler: Rudolf II
- Date: 1591
- Denomination: 1 Denar / Dénár
- Metal: Silver
- Mint: Kremnica
- Mintmark: KB
- Period: Late 16th century
- Reference: Huszár 1059 / Unger 811; MB 260
A charming and historically significant Hungarian silver coin from the Habsburg era, featuring the traditional Hungarian arms and the Madonna and Child. An excellent addition to a collection of Hungarian, Habsburg, European, or Renaissance-era coinage.
Please examine the photographs carefully for the exact condition, surfaces, patina, centering and details of this individual coin.
