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| Slot: |
Davenport 555 |
| Origin/Country: |
GERMANY - STATES - 2 Germany, Bavaria. Ludwig I (1825-1848) |
| Design Description: |
Geschichtstaler Commemorative - for Ludwig's accession to the throne. |
| Item Description: |
Silver TALER 1825 BAVARIA - CORONATION 555 |
| Grade: |
NGC MS 61 PL |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
...King Ludwig brought the coin closer to his eyes, inspecting it carefully. "I do really look good in the mantle indeed...and the whole Coronation Ceremony was truly beautiful... this makes me feel like Napoleon....no, better yet, like God himself!!!! Napoleon....Since his defeat in the Battle of Leipzig, Napoleon surrendered his Emperorship and fled into exile, and it was not undeserved! For He so pompously marched into Berlin in that far-off year of 1807, and I will never forgive his treatment of the German Royal Family....Well, He did, however, knew how to array his palace in true magnificence! The man had taste... nonetheless - enough thinking of Napoleon... my beloved Bavaria needs a Real King, The German One!" ...The old Mint Director coughed in hesitation to interrupt the King's reveries: "Your Grace! Yesterday thy artist, Herr Stiller, approached me. It seems that your Grace ordered him to paint a portrait of thyself at the Coronation Ceremony, and He likes the image of the engraving upon this beautiful coin! He wishes to portray Thee as well in the kingly mantle with crown, Constitution, sceptre, and outstretched hand - it is perfect - I am not opposed to this - it will be a grandiose work of art of Thy Majesty, but He also wishes to add the Throne to the background... As I said, I do not disagree, but this Throne truly does resemble that of Napoleon, with its ornate form and lettering! I did not include the throne on the coin for a reason...." Putting a regal hand upon the shoulder of his old friend, The King exclaimed, "You are absolutely right, Franz! But you do know these painters, especially Herr Stiller - he is a Master and I do not wish to interfere in his work of art. Let him paint, for Napoleon is gone and art is eternal! Also, Napoleon knew the worth in this - if he enjoyed this style then my kingdom, and I too, shall enjoy it!"
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King Maximilian Joseph died on October 13, 1825. Ludwig arrived to the Munich only on October 18 from Bad Bruckenau and in the morning of the next day He took the Oath on the Constitution Book as a new ruler of the Bavaria. That was His words after the Coronation: " It is not easy to rule the Bavarian people, but after the King we lost it is not even possible....."
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German Talers since 1800 by John S. Davenport.
Bavaria, King Ludwig Series (1825 - 1848).
Taler 1825, CORONATION TALER.
Davenport 555, KM 720, Thun 49, AKS 112, J.31
Commemoration of Ludwig's I accession to the throne.
Obverse: Head fo Ludwig to the right, LUDWIG I KOENIG VON BAYERN. ZEHN EINE FEINE MARK
Reverse: King in the mantle, Crown, Book of Law. TRITT DIE REGIERUNG DES LANDES AN, AM 13 OCTOBER1825 (Assumes the government of the country on October 13, 1825).
28.0600 g., 0.8680 Silver, 0.7830 oz. ASW.
NGC MS 61 PL - VZ/STG as PP
This is the first coin in Commemorative Series of the King Ludwig I of Bavaria - CORONATION TALER. One of the rarest to find in a high grade and especially in MS-certified condition. We are offering one of the top quality specimens - PROOFLIKE tier per NGC is well-deserved for this gorgeous coin with mirrored fields, amazing uncirculated detail of the design and cameo-like strike. Touch of champagne toning gives extra appealing look. Some excessive hairlines in the fields as well as contact marks determine the grade - graded as MS 61 by NGC. Still great collectible and investment item!
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| Slot: |
Davenport 556 |
| Origin/Country: |
GERMANY - STATES - 2 Germany, Bavaria King Ludwig I (1825- 1848) |
| Design Description: |
Kronentaler |
| Item Description: |
Silver TALER 1827 BAVARIA - CROWN IN WREATH 556 |
| Grade: |
PCGS MS 64 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
“....By the way, Franz, can you show me our regular coin, our good old Kronenthaler - do you have it with you,” said King Ludwig, looking at Franz Streber with smile on his face. “Of course, Your Majesty! Our best engraver, Johann Baptist Stiglmaier, did a great job portraying Your Grace on all Bavarian coins!!”. The Muenzecabinet Director opened another box with another coin inside. It was a large Kronenthaler with the profile of Ludwig on the obverse and the crown on reverse. The coin was just minted and even felt warm to the touch. The sunlight entering through the window sparkled and played on its mirror-edge surface. “So, what do you think about my hair- does it not look a little bit too messy?” exclaimed Ludwig, skeptically looking at his portrait. ” I love my French hairstyle, you know, it is part of my heritage - but do you think I should rearrange it, make it lookmore smooth or presentable?” Franz Streber shrugged his shoulders: ”Your Majesty! Your hair is our German Treasure, and we all love it! Plus your head looks great in its profile, at least much better than your father’s head did; at least you have more hair. Bavarians just love their Kings with their big haircuts - just remember your ancestors, Maximilian III Joseph, for example! Yes, we should keep your hair as is!” Ludwig looked overjoyed: “Great! Let’s not change it all! I love the design! I love the Crown! I love our legend ‘Just and Firm’! I love my Kingdom! I love myself!”
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German Talers since 1800 by John S. Davenport
Bavaria, King Ludwig Series (1825 - 1848).
Taler 1827, KRONENTALER
Davenport 556, KM 723, Thun 47, AKS 75, J.23
Regular issue Taler (Krone)
Obverse: Head of the Ludwig to the right, LUDWIG KOENIG VON BAYERN
Reverse: Crown within wreath, "GERECHT UND BEHARRLICH" (Just and firm)
Edge: BAYERISCHER KRONTHALER
29.5400 g., 0.8701 Silver, 0.8272 oz. ASW.
Mint state, cartwheel luster, clear mirror-like fields. Some tiny planchet flow on obverse. Rare in such a great condition.
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| Slot: |
Davenport 557 |
| Origin/Country: |
GERMANY - STATES - 2 Germany, Bavaria. Ludwig I (1825-1848). |
| Design Description: |
Geschichtstaler. Commemorative - for the relocation of the University from Landshut to Munich. |
| Item Description: |
Silver TALER 1826 BAVARIA - UNIVERSITY 557 |
| Grade: |
NGC MS 64 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
One fine early morning, King Ludwig slowly strolled through his garden and thought to himself amid beautiful flowers and pristine Greek statues. “It seems like it is not a simple task to be a King. My entire nation expects great actions, and I must serve Bavaria! But what must be done? It must be a historic act, one to uplift the Kingdom and cement my role as a Great King to be held in reverence by future generations! Surely it is easier to be just the Crown Prince and have fun with scholarly colleagues at Landshut University, drinking, hugging young girls, declaiming poetry and discussing the academia of Aristotle.” Taking a deep breath, King Ludwig began to reminisce. “And furthermore, I had promised my old teacher Father Maximilian to aid him in the reorganization of my Alma Mater as soon as I attained the Kingship – so be it!” Ludwig retreated to his cabinet to compose a letter to Landshut.
By the time of the arrival of the old Minister, Ludwig had already prepared his plan of action. Coming together in the meeting room of the palace, Ludwig embraced his old professor Maximilian, the Count of Montgelas. “My dear friend, I am so glad you have come! Now we can discuss the bright future of our University. Recall that it is named proudly after my ancestor Ludwig the Wealthy of Bavaria-Landshut, and as Ludwig I of Bavaria, I am obligated to continue the educational mission of my father and great-grandfather! Tell me, old friend, what is your vision of the future of our University?” exclaimed Ludwig in his excitement. The old Minister Maximilian arose with tears in his eyes, saying, “It is so marvelous to see you, your majesty – daily we thank God for your generosity and love. As I had always told your Grace before, the university requires a great deal of reform. We have opened new faculties in Writing and Medicine, and have finally expanded our scholarship influence between simple German people. We have more than a thousand students on our campus, and my dream is finally coming true; I had always wanted to see our University not as a sacred society for Jesuits and Canonic Orders but as a Palace of Knowledge for the peoples of Bavaria, accessible to all. However, we must still expand the faculty and build new facilities… and with the great help of your majesty then the dream will come entirely true!”
“My dear friend,” exclaimed Ludwig, placing a noble hand on Maximilian’s shoulder, “I will do what I can do help Bavaria become the most educated nation in Germany! I will give you money, I will construct buildings, and I will create scholarships for farmers and simple people – but I have one condition: the University should be moved from Landshut to the Capital, to Munich! I am building this city as the cultural center for all German art, science, and education and we must have our own University! By the way, Landshut is not the original home of the University either, for King Maximilian I brought it from Ingolstadt in 1800 to protect it from the Napoleonic Invasion. And now, after the glorious defeat of France, it is time to bring it back not to Ingolstadt, but to Munich! This I say as King and Ruler.” Maximilan nodded in graceful acquiescence, “As Your Grace wishes. I shall return immediately and will present thy wish to the Board of Ministers. I am sure they will not object and we will start the relocation process as soon as possible!” King Ludwig smiled with great pride; now his name would be forever tied with the great names of his father and ancestors, the builders of the German foundation! He did not yet know yet that it would be the students of his very University that would play a great role in Ludwig’s abdication during the 1848 German Revolution… but it will be the history to come.
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We should also mention the name of the new Minister of the Religious and Secular Education, Eduard von Schenk, who was a right hand of King Ludwig in relocation process for the University. This noble man truly believed in important role of the education to raise all German Nation. In 1826 the University was finally moved to Munich and on November 15, 1826 its door was open for the students. The Grand opening had place in the former Jesuit College building but to the year of 1840 the University expanded by the both side Ludwigstrasse buit by famous bavarian architect Friedrich von Gartner.
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German Talers since 1800 by John S. Davenport
Bavaria, King Ludwig Series (1825 - 1848).
Taler 1826, REMOVAL OF THE UNIVERSITY
Davenport 557, KM 722, Thun 50, AKS 115, J.33
Commemoration of the removal of the Ludwig- Maximilian University from Landshut to Munich
Obverse: Head fo Ludwig to the right, LUDWIG I KOENIG VON BAYERN. ZEHN EINE FEINE MARK
Reverse: VERLEGUNG DER LUDWIG MAXIMILIANS HOCHSCHULE VON LANDSHUT NACH MUNCHEN. 1826 below in wreath.
28.0600 g., 0.8680 Silver, 0.7830 oz. ASW.
This is another example of the "Historical Talers" of King Ludwig I of Bavaria - to Commemorate the Relocations of the Ludwig Maximilian University from Landshut to Munich. This is another high-quality collectible -MS 64 grade per NGC is well-deserved for this gorgeous coin with clear uncirculated fields, amazing sharp detail of the design and satin luster through the surfaces. Touch of toning at the edges gives extra appealing look. Couple tiny contact marks and hairlines on obverse did not affect the grade. Great collectible and investment item!
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| Slot: |
Davenport 558 |
| Origin/Country: |
GERMANY - STATES - 2 Germany, Bavaria. Ludwig I (1825-1848). |
| Design Description: |
Geschichtstaler. Commemorative - for the Death of Reichenbach and Fraunhofer. |
| Item Description: |
Silver TALER 1826 BAVARIA - REICHENBACH 558 |
| Grade: |
NGC MS 63 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
“A moment of your time, please, Your Majesty!” Upon hearing this, King Ludwig turned swiftly around, interrupting his leisurely morning stroll through the royal gardens. His eyes met an amusing sight, for amid the white cobblestone road and marble statues there was a man running towards him. “Your Majesty! Wait,” exclaimed the man breathlessly, not noticing that his own wig had fallen slightly askew owing to his frantic run. “What is it, dear Franz?” - asked the King, understanding the runner as his Munzkabinet Director, Franz Ignaz von Streber - “don’t hurry yourself, please explain what is going on.” Franz began, “Your Majesty, I rush so as to present to you your first Taler, the one which will premier the new series of memorial coins in our Munzkabinet, to glorify our legendary scholars and artisans! The first Taler is thus ready!” Excitedly, the King replied, “Of course, I remember when you first introduced to me the idea of this memorial coin series in June! You had presented it beautifully then: ‘These coins will carry the names of famous Bavarians throughout Europe for centuries, each as its own monument to the King!’ I could not have said better myself. So tell me of our first Taler, who has the honor of appearing upon it?” The director revealed a beautiful coin glimmering on purple velvet and presented it to the King. “Reichenbach and Fraunhofer!” The Taler had inscribed upon it the faces of two gentlemen acknowledging each other in profile - “Interesting,” said the King, “and who are these two?” “These, Your Highness, are our two famous compatriots! Reichenbach was a brilliant machinist and Fraunhofer was a virtuoso glassworker. Unfortunately they both lost their lives this year and Bavaria is still in mourning, so this Taler will be an eternal commemoration to our masterful artisans!” Unable to hide an air of skepticism, Ludwig inquired, “Forgive me Franz, but what is it that they have created to deserve such highest of praises?” Incredulously, Franz replied, “Everything, Your Majesty! They have wrought iron bridges, our Bavarian saltworks, optical manufacturing, instruments of astronomical and geological variety, etc… Our telescopes and astrolabes are widely to be considered the finest in the world - even finer than those of the English. All thanks to Reichenbach and Fraunhofer, eternal memory to them, who have lost their lives at such a young age! In fact, I believe..” Having said this, the Munzkabinet Director lowered his voice and leaned closer to the King, “… that over at that glass factory they both inhaled a fair amount of poisonous gases, and their hearts couldn’t withstand it. It’s such a shame, they could have devised so many brilliant inventions yet.” Smiling, the King answered, “Well alright, you convinced me. It’s just that.. on the Taler, why do they look at each other in such a way, as though they are about to kiss? The jokesters in our country would instantly call it something ridiculous, for example, the Kissing Taler or something… Is there no other way to orient these two upon the coin?” Laughing, the director replied, “Your Majesty, we tried various alternatives, and this is the most optimal variant we could imagine - surely they cannot be looking in opposite directions!” The King looked at him with a content sense of resolution. Giving back the coin to the director, Ludwig said, “Fine by me, please release it into circulation. Let it be known to all as the Kissing Taler.” With this, the King resumed his morning walk through the gardens, amid the beautiful marble statues and the gleaming faces of hundreds of happy flowers...
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German Talers since 1800 by John S. Davenport.
Bavaria, King Ludwig Series (1825 - 1848).
Taler 1826, REICHENBACH AND FRAUNHOFER.
Davenport 558, KM 721, Thun 51, AKS 114, J.32.
Minted on the death of the scientists Reichenbach and Fraunhofer.
Obverse: Head fo Ludwig to the right, LUDWIG I KOENIG VON BAYERN. ZEHN EINE FEINE MARK.
Reverse: DEM VERDIENSTE SEINE KRONEN, two heads facing each other, 1826, REICHENBACH --- FRAUNHOFER below.
NGC MS 63.
28.0600 g., 0.8680 Silver, 0.7830 oz. ASW.
Commemorative "Historic" Taler of Ludwig I of Bavaria - to Commemorate the Death of the scientists Reichenbach and Fraunhofer. Attractive patina with touch of pink hue at the edges. Heavily toned fields with some contact marks and rubbing spots determine the grade - graded as MS 63 by NGC. Still great collectible and RARE in MS coin!!
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| Slot: |
Davenport 559 |
| Origin/Country: |
GERMANY - STATES - 2 Germany, Bavaria Ludwig I (1825- 1848) |
| Design Description: |
Geschichtstaler Convention Taler - Custom Treaty |
| Item Description: |
Silver TALER 1827 BAVARIA - CUSTOMS TREATY 559 |
| Grade: |
NGC MS 62 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
King Ludwig of Bayern and His Majesty, King Wilhelm I of Wurttemberg were sitting around a big table laden with wine and fruits in the central room of the palace. While holding a glass of fine wine in one hand, Wilhelm continued his speech about the coming economic challenges for the Southern German States: “...And the danger comes, of course, from our Big Brothers, Prussia and Austria! I would like to remind Your Majesty about His legacy towards his noble Father, Maximillian of Bavaria, God bless his soul. He was a very wise man and as soon as the Napoleonic War was over, he started talking about an economic reunion between the lands of Bavaria and Wurttemberg! I understood that past this idea did not work well in the past - we were too separate after the war, but times have changed! Prussia and Austria have already sign a trade agreement and they are thinking to take over the rest of German Land! We should move forward quickly! We need to create the Union and Freedom of trade in Southern Germany!”.
“The idea to have freedom of trade is really great, as is my father’s memory. He always wanted to see our people freed from the bondage of customs and tariffs, inside Germany, at least! But don’t we lose a great deal of revenue if we abolish custom fees and tariffs? I need a lot of money to rebuild and renovate Munich, the Capital…” said King Ludwig as he slowly chewed a grape in solemn thought. “Not at all, your Grace! We will remove internal tariffs but compensate for the loss in revenue by increasing external fees and custom rules. I am talking about trading with France, England and, of course, Northern German States. We are the South! We possess the power of mines and industry!” exclaimed King Wilhelm as he stood up with excitement.
“Very well, very well,” said Ludwig. Though he was listening intently to Wilhelm, his thoughts moved in a very different direction. “If he will unite the Southern German Lands under a Trading Agreement, which would help to boost the economy and make people richer and happier, then later it could be possible to unite all political power in one hand as well! And he is the one who can spread wealth and happiness to all of his citizens in loving Bavaria, and all of the German states! There would be abundance and nourishment for all, like from an antique cornucopia” Ludwig arose, saying, “I will definitely make a new coin, something in the classical antique style; perhaps a couple cornucopias and may be Caduceus as a symbol of negotiation and commerce… I must discuss the design with my engraver. My friend, I will make preparations for the Trade Agreement as soon as possible, for we will call it the Customs Treaty! We will sign it and honor my father legacy, by pursuing wealth and prosperity in our lands! And now I would like to show you some of the new paintings in my art gallery which I recently brought from Italy.”
In 1828 a Customs Union was set up between Bavaria and Wurttemberg but unfortunately at the same year Prussia, Austria and other Northern States start moving forward in development of Zollverein – the German Customs Union which eventually brought Prussia to the forefront of political power in Germany. But this is a story of its own. More to follow…
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German Talers since 1800 by John S. Davenport
Bavaria, King Ludwig Series (1825 - 1848).
Taler 1827, CUSTOMS TREATY
Davenport 559, KM 731, Thun 52, AKS 116, J.34
Commemoration of the Bavarian - Wurttemberg Custom Union of 1827-1828.
Obverse: Head fo Ludwig to the right, LUDWIG I KOENIG VON BAYERN. ZEHN EINE FEINE MARK
Reverse: BAYERISCH -- WURTEMBERGISCHER ZOLLVEREIN, GESCHLOSSEN 1827 ( Bavarian - Wurttemberg custom union, formed 1827) , two cornucorias with caduceus on the center.
28.0600 g., 0.83300 Silver, 0.7515 oz. ASW.
Clear fields, slightly toned, uncirculated with minimal hairlines from light swipping.
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| Slot: |
Davenport 560 |
| Origin/Country: |
GERMANY - STATES - 2 Germany, Bavaria Ludwig I (1825- 1848) |
| Design Description: |
Geschichtstaler Commemorative -Order of Ludwig |
| Item Description: |
Silver TALER 1827 BAVARIA - ORDER OF LUDWIG 560 |
| Grade: |
NGC MS 64 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
The birthday ball was in full swing; music was playing and lavishly dressed guests glided across the ballroom floor of the palace. August 25th in year 1827 was the day that Bavaria celebrated the birthday of its King Ludwig I. Celebratory orchestras filled the streets of Munich, and rivers of beer flowed throughout the land. Amidst the celebration, the King himself sat in his throne room and graciously accepted gifts and congratulations from his many guests that arrived from all corners of Germany. When finally the Director and Engraver of the Mint Cabinet Franz Ignaz von Streber approached the King, he offered an ornate wooden box - the King’s eyes flashed in awe, for he knew that the precious box contained a new Taler or other fancy trinket. The King exclaimed, “Dear Ignaz, can it be? Is it a brand new Taler?” Old artist inclined his head offering the box in proud presentation, “Your Grace, this is more than just a Taler!” Gently taking the box from Ignuz, Ludwig opened it carefully and his eyes widened in amazement. Upon a red velvet pillow, shining splendidly in pure gold, was a new Order, shaped as the Maltian Cross and reflecting Ludwig’s astonishment in its golden center. “I have never seen such masterwork before, Ignuz! What do you call this?” Exclaimed the King in wonder. “This,” replied the Mintmaster, “is the new Order of King Ludwig I of Bavaria, the first of its kind. It appears, your Grace, that you never had such an Order and you are definitely need one!” Ludwig inspected the Order closely, carefully, and confirmed his amazement as the magnificent piece cast radiant light across the room. However, a bothersome thought perturbed his imagination… to whom could he bestow this newfound Order to, and for what accomplishment? Ignuz seemed to recognize the King’s momentary unease, and stated, “Every King needs his own order, to reward servants to the King for valorous deeds in the name of Germany!” And now the King smiled slyly, saying, “Dear Franz, thank you for the wonderful gift! I have made a decision; you will be the first recipient of this prestigious Order, for excellency in the crafting of the Bavarian history in beautiful Orders and Coins! You are the first to be worthy of their grand purpose! Furthermore, you have been a faithful servant to this great realm for many years, and your work for my father Maximilan and me, Ludwig the First, must be memorialized forever!” In eternal gratitude, the Mintmaster bowed low and exclaimed, “As your Grace would will it, I shall graciously accept this infinite honor. It brings great joy to my heart to see recognition for the formation of the MuenzCabinet and the continual production of great coinage for this wondrous nation. Each Taler is yet another shining gem in the crown of all of your Grace’s achievements as the King of this land.” Ludwig bowed his head in return, saying, “My dear friend, you have my gratitude for this wondrous gift. But don’t forget,tomorrow, bring the sketch for the new Taler as well! We will call it “King Ludwig Order Taler”!”
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Order of Ludwig was awarded to the citizens and government workers for the honest and faithful service to the king as well as for the 50 years of service. During the time of war each year counts as two. The Order was designed as gold Cross for there high ranked officers and as a gold medal for the 50 years of faithful service to the king for the rest of servants and citizens.
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German Talers since 1800 by John S. Davenport
Bavaria, King Ludwig Series (1825 - 1848).
Taler 1827, ORDER OF LUDWIG
Davenport 560, KM 732, Thun 53, AKS 118, J.35
Commemoration of the founding of the Order of Ludwig for the long and faithful service to the king.
Obverse: Head fo Ludwig to the right, LUDWIG I KOENIG VON BAYERN. ZEHN EINE FEINE MARK
Reverse: STIFTUNG DES LUDWIGS-ORDENS (Founding of the Ludwig Order), the portrait of the king on cross with LUDWIG KOENIG VON BAYERN aroung, 1827 below.
28.0600 g., 0.83300 Silver, 0.7515 oz. ASW.
Cameo strike, clear mirror fields, proof-like appearance.
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| Slot: |
Davenport 561 |
| Origin/Country: |
GERMANY - STATES - 2 Germany, Bavaria. Ludwig I (1825-1848) |
| Design Description: |
Geschichtstaler Commemorative - for the founding of the Order of Therese. |
| Item Description: |
Silver TALER 1827 BAVARIA - THERESIEN ORDER 561 |
| Grade: |
NGC MS 63 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
In the morning, King Ludwig lay in bed for a long while and tried remembering the many events that occurred the night before. Pain throbbed in his temples, soreness sat in his throat, and a strange metallic taste permeated his dry mouth. “Damn Spanish wine, (a gift from the King of Spain for Ludwig’s birthday), shouldn’t have drunk so much of it… At least the royal ball went well, for there was much merriment and cause for mystery as to how I ended up in my room this morning!” He resolved to ask his wife Theresa, and then remembered – “I have the feeling that she is upset with me, for it seems that I may have danced with a certain dame… or two… can’t remember any of it.” Sighing, the King staggered out of the bed and made his way to clean himself up before breakfast.
At breakfast, together they sat in an uncomfortable silence. King Ludwig would guiltily glance at his wife from time to time and absentmindedly pick at the food on his plate, yet Theresa stayed quiet and solemnly refused to look at her spouse. In his mind, Ludwig was coming to all sorts of conclusions: “Looks like it’s time to buy precious jeweled ring again…or even necklace ” Upon considering the cost to his Royal Treasury that another gift to his wife would claim, Ludwig suddenly started at noticing his wife’s eyes locked with his. With an air of disappointment, Theresa began, “How many more times, Your Majesty, should I tolerate your irresponsible antics? When we married, you assured me – no, you promised me – that you’d be mine and only mine, and would carry me in your arms. And now, you don’t even look at me for the whole night; not a single dance, not even a single glance!” Ludwig lowers his head, and uncomfortably responds, “My dear wife, please explain to me… whom could I have been looking at, if not you?”
Theresa’s eyes flashed – “I know not at whom you were looking. Your Majesty was too busy going around and bestowing the new Order of His Highness King Ludwig, or however you called it, to the men that you were drinking with! The Order of Ludwig! Or your Grace was too interested in constant flirtation with all those girls you surrounded yourself with, who have completely lost any shame they once had, not to mention honor! I always think, does our kingdom not have any mild-mannered, faithful girls, that honor themselves and don’t flirt with married men, even if it’s the King himself?!” Theresa rose, with anger in her face and lightning in her eyes. “Perhaps I’ll do as you have done, Your Highness, and will bestow an Order for every good-natured girl in our kingdom. I might even call it the Order of Theresa, the poor deceived wife who must bear the drunken escapades of her self-absorbed husband. Unlike your Order of Ludwig, that you were so generously giving out right and left in your inebriation; my Order will glorify clean lifestyles and will honor the pious, good-hearted women of the kingdom of Bavaria. Of course these recipients will be unmarried women of significant social stature – they must attend church and lead exclusively Puritan ways of life – as I myself pleasure in doing. Everything I do, I do to be an example for those that I represent. I have birthed heirs for us; I have raised them, and try to be the ideal wife for Your Highness and Queen for Your people – but you! Your drunken foolishness! Your female admirers!” – With her face in her hands, Theresa began to weep.
“Well, that didn’t go so well…” thought Ludwig. He approached her, embraced her tightly and looked into her eyes: “Forgive me, my love! There isn’t a single woman in this entire kingdom that is worth more to me than you are. All of our kingdom isn’t worth a single tear from your beautiful eyes! I assure you – no, I promise you – that henceforth I will be with you, and will only breathe and live for you alone.” His voice trembled. It seemed that he himself was beginning to believe the words coming out of his mouth. “Your desires are law for me! If you want an Order, then today an Order of Theresa will be specially excised for you – what a fantastic, royal name! To award this to the pious women of the land, I shall immediately sign a decree for 100 – no, 300 guldens for each woman you deem worthy of your prestigious Order! I have even thought of a name to bestow upon these honorable recipients – we shall call them “Ehrendame” before the entire royal court!”.
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The Order of Theresa is still continues to exist today as an noble society for the ladies from House of Wittelsbach and other aristocratic families in Bavaria. Queen Theresa originally determined eligibility for the ladies to be a christian, born under the Law of Church and non-married. She personally choose first twelve cavaliers of the Order and established an annual pension for each of them as well as the title of “Ehrendame” or “Dame of Honour”. The Order should be worn on the left breast and consist of a blue Maltese Cross with a white edge and a gold royal crown above. At the centre there is a gold bordered white medallion with the letter T. On the back there is an year (1827) as well as the motto: “Unser Leben sey Glaube an das Ewige” (Our life is faith forever). There are some Dames of Honour still living today such as the Princess of Liechtenstein, for example.
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German Talers since 1800 by John S. Davenport.
Bavaria, King Ludwig Series (1825 - 1848).
Taler 1827, ORDER OF THERESE.
Davenport 561, KM 733, Thun 54, AKS 119, J.36.
Commemoration of the founding of the Order of Therese by the Queen.
Obverse: Head fo Ludwig to the right, LUDWIG I KOENIG VON BAYERN. ZEHN EINE FEINE MARK.
Reverse: DIE KOENIGIN VON BAYERN STIFTET DEN THERESIEN ORDEN, the letter T in a wreath on Cross, 1827 below.
28.0600 g., 0.83300 Silver, 0.7515 oz. ASW.
NGC MS 63+.
Definitely deserves "+" tier for the appearance - this Commemorative Thaler of Ludwig I of Bavaria shows reflective fields with touch of golden toning, slightly patchy on obverse as well as sharp uncirculated details. Single contact marks appreciated in the fields. Theresian Order - great collectible and high quality item!!
|
| Slot: |
Davenport 562 |
| Origin/Country: |
GERMANY - STATES - 2 Germany, Bavaria Ludwig I (1825- 1848) |
| Design Description: |
Geschichtstaler Commemortive - Column of the Constitution |
| Item Description: |
Silver TALER 1828 BAVARIA - MONUMENT 562 |
| Grade: |
NGC MS 63 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
… “A letter from the King, for the Count,” exclaimed old valet, and with a bow of reverence presented a rather large package adorned with kingly symbols and a wax stamp bearing the letter “L”. Slowly, Count Franz Erwein von Schoenborn shut the book he was reading and apprehensively rose from his seat to greet the servant. “From the King? Surely you are not mistaken, Karl?” “Not at all, my lord! The clues do not lie; the package is from Munich, brought by the King’s courier, and the type as well… if you please, my Lord,” replied the servant calmly. Anxiously, the Count took hold of the package, saying, “Yes, it seems that my old friend Ludwig hasn’t forgotten about me! But what could be inside?” Opening the package, he found a small box with a folded letter; Franz instantly recognized the King’s handwriting. It read: “Dear friend, in memory of our mutual project, I send to you an example of the new Taler presenting our magnificent Pillar of the Constitution. As the ancient Greeks would say: one friend of the Constitution would send it to another! Our Pillar is a spectacular monument to the will of the German spirit! The Constitution, adopted by my father, shall unify us all before God and Law, and prevent the corruption and lawlessness that we suffered through during the dictatorship of Napoleon!” The Count opened the velvet box and thoughtfully eyed the gleaming new coin. Upon one side was stamped the majestic monolith of the Pillar, with an inscription of “The Pillar of the Constitution, erected by the Count von Schoenborn in memory of the year 1828”. On the other side, the regal profile of King Ludwig of Bavaria twinkled at him. With tears of memory in his eyes, the Count thought, “Thank you, Ludwig… thank you, my dear old friend.” He remembered how they hotly debated the project of the monument to commemorate the Ten Year Constitutional Anniversary, how they argued about the design with famous architect Leo von Klentze, who was brought by Ludwig himself from Munich and how in the year of 1821, the future King of Bavaria set into the earth the first foundation stone for a colossal monument. He also reminisced about the jubilant unveiling of the monument on the day of August 23rd, 1828, and the rivers of Bavarian beer and rapturous music and dance that marked a glorious day. The Celebration of the Constitution became an inseparable symbol of German culture, as thousands of people flocked from across the land to Gaibach to attend the festival. “Thank you, Ludwig, thank you, our dear, righteous King,” thought the Count as he looked at the new shiny coin in his hand… He did not yet know that on the celebration day of the year 1832, his good friend William Joseph Behr would utter a speech that would have him arrested as a slanderer of His Highness the King. Despite numerous appeals in the year 1835, he would be pronounced guilty and thrown into prison. Following this turn of events, the Count von Schoenborn entirely ceased to participate in politics any longer, and Constitutional celebrations in Gaibach were abandoned.
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German Talers since 1800 by John S. Davenport
Bavaria, King Ludwig Series (1825 - 1848).
Taler 1828, COLUMN OF THE CONSTITUTION
Davenport 562, KM 735, Thun 55, AKS 123, J.38
Commemoration of Tenth Anniversary of the Bavarian Constitution.
Obverse: Head fo Ludwig to the right, LUDWIG I KOENIG VON BAYERN. ZEHN EINE FEINE MARK
Reverse: VERFASSUNGSSAEULE ERRICHTET VOM GR. V. SCHOENBORN, Column, EINGEWEIHT 1828.
28.0600 g., 0.83300 Silver, 0.7515 oz. ASW.
NGC MS 63.
Cameo strike, proof-like appearance, some tiny hairlines in the fields.
|
| Slot: |
Davenport 563 |
| Origin/Country: |
GERMANY - STATES - 2 Germany, Bavaria Ludwig I (1825-1848). |
| Design Description: |
Geschichtstaler Commemorative - Blessings of Royal Family. |
| Item Description: |
Silver TALER 1828 BAVARIA - ROYAL FAMILY 563 |
| Grade: |
PCGS MS 62 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
Young Adalbert lay snugly wrapped in a snowy white blanket, sucking his pacifier with tranquility. “What a beautiful creation! But more importantly – look, one can already see the features of the Wittelsbach Family twinkling through him! That nose, that profile, it looks kingly already! And how sweetly he minds that binky,” exclaimed Ludwig as he embraced Theresa, and they lovingly looked into the baby’s crib. The newborn prince was yet another much-anticipated heir to the royal line of King Ludwig I of Bavaria. He was the youngest of four brothers, the other three having provided the Wittelsbach line with a bright future of great promise. “Thank you, my love,” whispered Ludwig as he kissed his wife, his eyes shining with tears of overwhelming pride. Another heir, all that a true king could possibly hope for! “It truly is some sort of a divine blessing upon our family. In fact, “Heavenly Blessing” sounds excellent as an inscription of some kind… let’s ask our dear director of the Muentzkabinet to issue a Memorial Taler for my youngest son and heir gracing these words, at once!” Instantly, Ludwig was swept into wild imaginings of the future Taler’s lustre and gleam until his wife’s curly brown hair softly came to rest upon his shoulder. “Dearest husband and King, but what of the other children? They too are all divine blessing upon this beautiful family. Surely it would be gracious to create a special Taler for each of them!” Thoughtfully, Ludwig replied, “Not a bad idea, my dear, we would get eight gorgeous, unique Talers – one for each precious child,” until suddenly, an enchanting idea invited his eyes to widen, “…or even better, we’ll have one great Taler to include all eight of them in their splendor! What an astonishing idea! We shall call it the Family Taler, the first of its kind!” In rapture of excitement, he swiftly kissed his wife and ran to find the Muentzdirektor.
————————————————————————————————— Male heirs were of utmost importance to the royal family – without them, the future of the kingly bloodline would be threatened. In the year 1834, the German historian Kramer wrote, “The ancient trunk is threatened that has only one branch, yet the eternal sky still watches the holy oak of Wittelsbach – and with its blessing, the tree’s radiant canopy has opened yet again.” The Family Taler displays the children of Ludwig I and his queen Theresa: the crown prince Maximilian, behind whom is Maximilian II (born 11/28/1811), Mathilda (08/30/1813), Otto (06/01/1815) – furthermore, the king of Greece, Leopold (03/14/1821) with prince-regent Adelgund (03/19/1823), Hildegard (06/10/1825), Alexander (08/26/1826) and Adalbert (07/19/1828). Another daughter, Theodolinde (10/07/1816) died during childhood and was unable to feature on the coin.
The Family Taler was of such popularity that even other kings tried to replicate the idea; for instance, the Russian Emperor Nicholas I released a series of Family Rubles, the likeness of which resembles the Family Taler of Ludwig I!
——————————————————————————————————
German Talers since 1800 by John S. Davenport
Bavaria, King Ludwig Series (1825 - 1848).
Taler 1828, ROYAL FAMILY.
Davenport 563, KM 734, Thun 56, AKS 121, J.37.
For the Blessing of Heaven on the Royal Family.
Obverse: Head fo Ludwig to the right, LUDWIG I KOENIG VON BAYERN. ZEHN EINE FEINE MARK
Reverse: SEGEN DES HIMMELS, portrait of the mother queen surrounded by those of her eight children, 1828 below.
28.0600 g., 0.83300 Silver, 0.7515 oz. ASW.
PCGS MS 62.
Dull luster, sharp design, uncirculated and beautiful.
|
| Slot: |
Davenport 564 |
| Origin/Country: |
GERMANY - STATES - 2 Germany, Bavaria. Ludwig I (1825-1848). |
| Design Description: |
Geschichtstaler. Commemorative - for the Commercial Treaty. |
| Item Description: |
Silver TALER 1829 BAVARIA - COMMERCE TREATY 564 |
| Grade: |
NGC MS 62 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
Baron Johann Friedrich von Cotta did not sleep all night. His writing desk was overflowing with countless papers, each saturated with fine scrawls of black script. He would pull one out of the stack, briefly glare at it, angrily tear it to shreds, and mindlessly reach for another blank sheet to begin scrawling anew. Plumes of blue tobacco smoke hung motionless under the ceiling of the musty library. For the Baron knew that tomorrow would be a momentous day; he must speak at the Munich Assembly, with hopes of convincing King Ludwig of Bavaria to agree to a Customs Union with Prussia and Hesse-Darmstadt. Following a prolonged discussion with Friedrich von Motz, the Prussian Minister of Finance, the Baron understood the various political landmarks that such a union could create. A firm union between the North and South would not only weaken Middle Union states like Saxony and Hannover, but would also greatly lessen the influence of foreign traders such as France and England - not to mention Austria, who stubbornly refused to join the Union. The Baron thought to himself, “Convincing King Ludwig will be a difficult and trying task, considering his insistence for Bavarian dominance in this region… but perhaps I can find a few potent arguments.” Friedrich Wilhelm, the King of Prussia, would find himself in the position to make various concessions and to lose some money - but it would be for the greater good. For one cannot forget that the industrial sector of Prussia is desperately in need of coal and silver from Harz, among other southern lands. The Austrian economy is at stake! Such a union would bring Prussia into the pinnacles of German power.
The next day, golden rays of sun shone through the palace windows, reflecting polychromatic brilliance through carved wineglasses and ornate jewelry worn by distinguished ministers and officials. Amid the atmosphere the Baron roared, “We will join our lands with duty-free roads! The heart of Harz will be linked with Prussian factories! In time, the Zollverein could even expand to the Middle States! If we join our powers, we will show the rest of our impotent neighbors, especially - Austria - that our beloved Germany is united in its power and DOMINANCE!” With this the Baron fell back into his chair and downed an entire glass of wine in one triumphant swig. Silence hung in the air like smoke, and all eyes were fixed on the contemplative form of King Ludwig of Bavaria. Rising slowly from his seat, the King regally lifted his hand and held aloft his brimming glass of wine. After a moment of silence, he suddenly bellowed, “To the new Customs Union! To a Germany without borders! To the freedom of trade! To prosperity!” And immediately the entire palace became filled with thunderous applause! The King of Bavaria rejoiced, for his father’s long-standing dream had finally been fulfilled; Germany slowly but surely edged towards unity and blossoming wealth. As if to comfort the tears of joy in his eyes, an idea split his mind like a flash of white lightning - he should make a Taler, adorned with cornucopias and noble shields and a caduceus! It would be beauty incarnate!
After a time, all other states joined the Zollverein under Prussian leadership. This led to the unity of Germany under Prussian economic and political power.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
German Talers since 1800 by John S. Davenport.
Bavaria, King Ludwig Series (1825 - 1848).
Taler 1829, COMMERCE TREATY.
Davenport 564, KM 738, Thun 57, AKS 124, J.39.
Commemoration of the Bavarian - Prussian- Wurttemberg and Hesse Commerce Treaty.
Obverse: Head fo Ludwig to the right, LUDWIG I KOENIG VON BAYERN. ZEHN EINE FEINE MARK
Reverse: HANDELSVERTRAG ZWISCHEN BAYERN, PREUSSEN, WURTTEMBERG UND HESSEN, 1829 (Commercial Treaty between Bavaria, Prussia, Wurttemberg and Hesse) , two cornucorias with caduceus on the center and four shields around.
28.0600 g., 0.83300 Silver, 0.7515 oz. ASW.
Commemorative "Historic" Taler of Ludwig I of Bavaria - to Commemorate the Commercial Treaty between Bavaria, Prussia, Wurttemberg and Hesse. Heavily toned with some contact marks and hairlines, dark-bronze mirrored fields create very sophisticated look and possibly determine the grade - graded as MS 62 by NGC. Still great collectible and RARE in MS coin!!
|
| Slot: |
Davenport 565 |
| Origin/Country: |
GERMANY - STATES - 2 Germany, Bavaria Ludwig I (1825- 1848) |
| Design Description: |
Kronentaler Regular issue |
| Item Description: |
Silver TALER 1835 BAVARIA - CROWN IN WREATH 565 |
| Grade: |
NGC MS 63 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
King Ludwig sat at his splendid desk and carefully, meticulously looked over a bright new stempelglanz; this Kronentaler was solemnly given to him by the director of the Müenzkabinet for direct personal inspection. With a bow of respectful grace, Ignatz von Streber proudly pronounced, “What you see in this coin shall be a new series of Kronentaler… and as Your Majesty requested, displaying an entirely new style of hair.” Ludwig scrutinized the piece intensely, restlessly muttering, “No, no, there is something quite wrong with the hair… these locks above the ears are placed so improperly! In fact, I desired for my kingly forehead to be opened wide for the entire world to revel at, akin to that of a stern Greek philosopher! Surely you understand, Ignatz, that a mighty forehead is to be revealed and proudly worn at all times - it is a sign of great knowledge and deep wisdom! And what is it exactly that you have brought me here? How would all of my subjects regard such a picture? They would see their beloved King in all his glory as he emerged from his bed as though he were near the brink of a splendid death, after a miserable night with a mistress whose name he had long forgotten!”
…..
Suddenly, the King’s voice grew considerably gentler: “Actually, the Lady Regina, yes, Regina Daxenberger - beautiful and wild, perhaps even dangerous...” the King’s faced smiled as though recalling a beautifully fragrant memory. “I have already commissioned my artist Joseph Stieler to create a portrait of her for my own personal Gallery of Beauties! A dear friend of mine, she is a great lady, a pure Bavarian despite being a lowly copper-smith’s daughter! After having asked her to be the First Lady for the Royal Ball with the Duke Maximilian, I was thrilled that she consented! We danced wildly all night and I have no recollection of how the course of events ended up in my bedroom… Unfortunately, the next morning, my artist Joseph insisted that I pose for a solid few hours for some sort of portrait, despite not feeling crisp at all myself.”
After this, the director of the Muenzkabinet decided to interrupt; with a bow, he said, “If your Grace permits me, I believe I know what kind of portrait Herr Stieler painted that morning.” Raising a surprised brow, Ludwig exclaimed, “Oh do you? So would you be so kind as to inform me about this damn portrait exactly?” Respectfully, Ignatz von Streber did not move and maintained his bow throughout his answer: “I believe it was ordered to inscribe thy great profile into the new Kronentaler, as per the order of the Müenzkabinet. In fact, it is the very coin that you hold in your jeweled hands.” Returning his gaze to the sparkling piece of metallic artistry held in his fingers, Ludwig sighed, “So this is the outcome…” He glanced over his shining metallic profile with a momentary glint of mad delight in his eyes.
Finally, he sighed, “In that case, it makes complete sense for my hair to tell such a wild story. If the finest hair artists in the kingdom could not tame my mad lion’s mane, then so be it, it must be left as is. To do otherwise is not in accordance with the will of God, and as God’s direct messenger and pure incarnation, I would most definitely know. As for the forehead, I am no Greek philosopher, no damned Aristotle - instead, I am King Ludwig of Bavaria! Nothing more, and nothing less! If I have the love of my subjects, then it is all that this vessel of God would ever need. In fact, Ignatz, change nothing! Send the Kronentaler into circulation as is, complete with my fabulous hair!”
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
German Talers since 1800 by John S. Davenport
Bavaria, King Ludwig Series (1825 - 1848).
Taler 1835, KRONENTALER.
Davenport 565, KM 751 (394), Thun 48, AKS 76, J.30.
Regular issue Taler (Krone).
KEY DATE and LOW MINTAGE - 7500 only.
Obverse: Head of the Ludwig to the right, LUDWIG I KOENIG VON BAYERN.
Reverse: Crown within wreath, "GERECHT UND BEHARRLICH" (Just and firm).
Edge: BAYERISCHER KRONTHALER
29.5400 g., 0.8710 Silver, 0.8272 oz. ASW.
Slightly toned, dull luster, uncirculated and rare. Key Date.
|
| Slot: |
Davenport 566 |
| Origin/Country: |
GERMANY - STATES - 2 Germany, Bavaria Ludwig I (1825- 1848) |
| Design Description: |
Geschichtstaler Commemortive - Loyalty |
| Item Description: |
Silver TALER 1830 BAVARIA - LOYALTY 566 |
| Grade: |
PCGS MS 64 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
News from across the border had begun to grow worse with the passage of time. The year 1830 never failed to bring new surprises to the royal dynasties of Europe. Before the cannonades of a rebellious France quieted down, the bloody July Revolution broke the Bourbon throne and forced King Charles X to flee the country. In pursuit, the fires of rebellion flared in Brussels as well as in the southern province of the United Kingdom of the Netherlands. The separatists, which consisted of students and working class men and women, demanded the independence of Belgium as a separate Kingdom. This alarming societal turbulence came to arise as well in Switzerland and Italy.
“Even Poland, even Poland breaking from the Russian Empire! There is way too much blood flowing from this world,” lamented King Ludwig as he grimly watched on from the window into the depths of a thick Bavarian night. He could not help but sense the wraith impending doom hanging overhead, bearing down on his beloved Bavaria, his sacred Germany. “Damn these Romantics; who do these students think they are? They are students, revolutionaries, but mere children! They do not know what they bargain for when they look for such unknown changes!”
“O God, deliver and save my beloved Bavaria! Who needs this constitutional monarchy? If the King understands how to wield his people to the purest extent, there is no use for a Parliament! They would only deliberate endlessly about the King’s firm decisions! No. Only the King must hold the reins of his kingdom aloft, through the grace of God Himself!”
All of a sudden, the King’s thoughts took an entirely new direction. “I must give back to my subjects, and show them the meaning of their righteous King! In all the months of this revolutionary year, not a single spark of discontent appeared within the walls of my Kingdom. Surely they must love their life, their land, their leader! Alas, my heart burns to somehow reflect your unceasing devotion and humility! I shall resolve to introduce a new holiday, to be called the “Day of Kingly Loyalty” and to overflow with festivity and cheer!”
And instantly, an idea gleamed within the eyes of the righteous monarch: “Or better yet - I will bestow to each and every one of my beloved Bavarian subjects a special Taler - it will sing 'TO LOYALTY’! Surely the Goddess of Loyalty and Devotion, Eusebia, belongs within the coin’s shining embrace. She shall be seated with an oak branch in hand, held aloft, as the symbol for Germany… A hound will rest at her feet, as yet another incarnation of pure devotion and loyalty to the one and only cause!” Hurriedly, the King flew to his writing desk and began to order the commission of an entirely new Bavarian coin.
_________________________________________________________________
King Ludwig was indeed correct - the year 1830 proved to be exceedingly tranquil for his beloved Bavaria, as for the entirety of Germany. At that point he had no clue as to the impending thunder of the year 1844, when Bavaria would flare into the winds of revolt as seen in the “Beer Riot”; this thunder would eventually culminate with the bloody Revolution of 1848 and his royal abdication. But this chapter of the story yet remains to be told!
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German Talers since 1800 by John S. Davenport
Bavaria, King Ludwig Series (1825 - 1848).
Taler 1830, LOYALTY.
Davenport 566, KM 750, Thun 58, AKS 125, J.40.
Commemorative - for the faithfulness of Bavarians to the King.
Obverse: Head fo Ludwig to the right, LUDWIG I KOENIG VON BAYERN. ZEHN EINE FEINE MARK
Reverse: BAYERNS TREUE (Faithfulnes of Bavarians), seated femail with oak branch and dog. 1830 below.
PCGS MS 64.
28.0600 g., 0.83300 Silver, 0.7515 oz. ASW.
Dul luster, spotty toning, uncirculated.
|
| Slot: |
Davenport 567 |
| Origin/Country: |
GERMANY - STATES - 2 Germany, Bavaria. Ludwig I (1825- 1848). |
| Design Description: |
Geschichtstaler. Commemorative - Local Legislature. |
| Item Description: |
Silver TALER 1831 BAVARIA - LEGISLATURE 567 |
| Grade: |
NGC MS 62 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
Yesterday, in the Royal Palace, behind closed doors, the President of the Chamber of Deputies Sebastian von Schrenk met with the Supreme king, His rightful Majesty the Ludwig I of Bavaria. The conversation flowed, of course, regarding the Parliamentary session, that had originally been intended to take place on the 1st of March in the year 1831. “Lookie here, my dear Sebastian!” exclaimed the king as he slid a paper over to the Head of the Government. The paper had inscribed upon it some kind of unintelligible drawing, vaguely resembling a lion holding a shield. “What’s this, your Highness?” asked von Schrenck, who rarely had a personal audience with the king, and for this reason felt not completely sure of himself… “This is what I want to see in our Parliament – nah, this is what even our Great Maximilian, Papa Max, wanted to see when he ratified the Constitution of 26th May 1818 – our lion Bavaria, ..resembling a lion, being defended from enemies through our Constitution, our Laws and our Parliament which is the very lens of Law and Culture! I even fitted onto the shield a famous semblance of Horatio – Justus et propositi tenax – Just and Firm – how a TRUE monarch should act, freely giving power to the Parliament, but.. believe me, my dear Sebastian.. I would greatly desire for you to, so to say.. scratch MY, erm, kingly back, ha ha - in return.. to help ME to reinstate sacred stability and lawfulness in Our Country! I need L A W S that will unite the Catholics and the Protestants, the Artistocracy and the Christians, the army and the people, bless their hearts!” – and with this the king shot a direct and uncompromising stare straight into the Head of the Parliament – “I hope that you understand.”
.. “Of course, your Highness!” At once the von Schrenck felt himself embarrassed, uncomfortable, and truly corpse-like in the searing beam of the king’s no-nonsense laser look. “..but this will not be easy. Our 2-nd Constitution, of course, looks far from completion. Although the Protestants equalized their rights with the Catholics, the government still refuses many of our own deputies their own official powers referring to religious preferences of creed, our army diligently swears by the New Constitution. But please don’t worry, Your Highness! We have already prepared a brochure of new laws in print, a new Cabinet of Ministers has already stepped up to the job, and they’re currently perusing the new budget! I’m certain that our new Landtag will be able to handle any disagreements that may arise between the Lower and Upper Chambers and will arrange for the newest and best conditions for the flourishing of our dear Bavaria!”
“Well, excellent!” Ludwig arose, clearly intending to conclude the meeting, all the while saying,
“I do sincerely hope that the liberal Parliament specifically will manage to solve the numerous sufferings and problems in our country! And I, as a true liberal Monarch, ha, ha, will once again repeat to You the immortal Horatian epithet – J U S T U S E T P R O P O S I T I T E N A X – justice and perseverance !! In fact, this sketch of a lion with a shield will adorn our new celebratory Taler, in dear dedication to our New, Just, and liberal Parliament!”
_________________________________________________________________________
Unfortunately, the dreams of king Ludwig regarding a just and unified Parliament did not, in fact, materialize into reality. The liberal government of Eduard von Schrenk could not solve all of the numerous contradictions, the new projects on laws - including the law as it had already at that time appeared in print – unable to handle ANY criticism, any and all liberal decision-making as enacted by the Lower Chamber immediately hit the brakes in the Governmental Advisory chamber. The deputies even cut financial allocations to the Ministry of War and even to the upkeep of the royal palace – this greatly angered the king. And in the end, king Ludwig rejected the liberal scheme of governmental organization and planning, which of course led to cataclysmic opposition in the whole of Parliament. But this already spells a different story for a new and upcoming history in the not-too-distant future.
_____________________________________________
German Talers since 1800 by John S. Davenport.
Bavaria, King Ludwig I Series (1825 - 1848).
Taler 1831, LEGISLATURE.
Davenport 567, KM 760, Thun 59, AKS 126, J.41.
Commemorative - for the opening of Local Legislature.
Obverse: Head of the Ludwig I to the right, LUDWIG I KOENIG VON BAYERN. ZEHN EINE FEINE MARK.
Reverse: Lion holding shield. Legend - GERECHT UND BEHARRLICH. 1831 below.
NGC MS 62.
28.0600 g., 0.83300 Silver, 0.7515 oz. ASW.
Patchy champagne toning, more on obverse, cameo strike on reverse with some hairlines on the field.
|
| Slot: |
Davenport 568 |
| Origin/Country: |
GERMANY - STATES - 2 Germany, Bavaria. Ludwig I (1825-1848). |
| Design Description: |
Geschichtstaler. To commemorate Prince Otto as a First King of Greece. |
| Item Description: |
Silver TALER 1832 BAVARIA - PRINCE OTTO 568 |
| Grade: |
NGC MS 63 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
“Only a monarchy!”
As he rigidly looked around the room at the seated diplomats, the British Foreign Secretary Lord Palmerston felt his sideburns flare in austerity. “There are more than enough noble families in Europe that could provide a suitable monarch for this young country that has only recently shed 400 years of Turkish control and brutality.” As he turned to France and Russia, the other “Great Powers”, it struck him that he was Great Britain’s mouthpiece in deciding the fate of a sovereign European government. The diplomats exchanged tense glances.
“We must find a young prince from a good family and give unto him the reins of power. In time he will find his wisdom with the help of our power in counsel, finances, and military.” Palmerston sat down at the table, put on his spectacles, and began to search through a stack of papers. “Ah, how about young Leopold, the Duke of Saxe-Coburg - would he not make a great prince for the Greek State?”
“A moment, if you please…”
The quiet voice penetrated the silence and surprised the Foreign Secretary - in fact, every man in the room turned to see from where the sound began its flight. It was Baron Rothschild, the financial genius of the English Crown, whose leaden opinion carried unspeakable weight. “Unfortunately the Rothschild Bank cannot possibly satisfy the requirements of Prince Leopold. He already requested an absurd amount of 60 million francs in exchange for promising safety on northern borders. In addition, the young monarch has repeatedly stated that he preferred to assume the Kingship of newly-formed Belgium - something to do with staying closer to his own homeland. We certainly cannot lend gigantic sums to a King that threatens unpredictability in his decision making.” After Rothschild returned to stony silence, Lord Palmerston drew a deep breath, saying, “So be it, let us seek out other candidates.”
“And how about Prince Otto, the son of Ludwig, King of Bavaria?” All eyes again sought out the speaker, who revealed himself to be Colonel Carl Wilhelm von Heideck, a brave soldier and national hero. Arising, this iron-willed man began to address the court of diplomats: “The prince is young and full of life, adores Greece, and above all, has the the support of Ludwig with his Bavarians and his money. The King has already endured vast financial expenditure - mind you, more than any other European monarch - directed toward sustaining the Greek struggle for independence and now should deserve to see the fruits of his effort. What better gift than to see his own son hold the reins of power?”
Not a bad idea, thought Palmerston, one that would favor the Germans - his gaze remained fixed on the speaker. “And what does the Prince of Bavaria, a Roman Catholic, have in common with the Greek traditions, language, religion? The populace would surely reject such a foreign King.” Inclining his head proudly, Colonel von Heideck flared back in quick rebuttal: “The honorable Lord forgets that Prince Otto himself is a direct descendant of the royal Greek dynasties. His ancestor, Duke John II was also a direct descendant of the Komnenos and Laskaris dynasties. As for the language and traditions, the prince is young and eager to learn it all!”
Lord Palmerston arose with conviction: “Are there any other suggestions?” - the resulting silence from the court could not be clearer - "Then it is decided! Send word to Munich immediately, and may the prince assume his position without delay. This assembly is adjourned.” The court of diplomats begun to dissociate in a relieved flurry of activity. The Lord then turned to the Russian and French diplomats, saying, “As for us, we must turn our discussion to the future borders of the new kingdom…”
So in 1832 the Great Powers - Britain, France, and Russia - decided the fate of Greece without consulting a single Greek individual. On the seventh of May, the decision was made to install Prince Otto of Bavaria as the King of a newly independent Greece. King Ludwig signed the Coronation agreement on May 27th and on August 8th, the Greek Assembly signed its final approval of appointing Otto as King. Despite loving the country and heritage with all his heart, Otto never became the shining beacon of stability and hope for the Greek people. This eventually brought with it the storms of uprising and the shame of abdication… but this is the story to come.
____________________________________________________________________________________
German Talers since 1800 by John S. Davenport
Bavaria, King Ludwig Series (1825 - 1848).
Taler 1832, PRINCE OTTO.
Davenport 568, KM 761, Thun 60, AKS 127, J.42.
Commemorative - for the selection of Prince Otto of Bavaria as first king of Greece.
Obverse: Head of the Ludwig I to the right, LUDWIG I KOENIG VON BAYERN. ZEHN EINE FEINE MARK
Reverse: OTTO PRINZ V. BAYERN GRIECHENLANDS ERSTER KOENIG, Prince Otto receiving crown from Greece, 1832 below.
PCGS MS 63.
28.0600 g., 0.83300 Silver, 0.7515 oz. ASW.
This is another example of the "Historical Talers" of King Ludwig I of Bavaria - to Commemorate the Prince Otto to be chosen as first King of Greece. This is another high-quality collectible -MS 63 grade per NGC is well-deserved for this gorgeous coin with clear uncirculated fields, amazing sharp detail of the design and satin luster through the surfaces. Touch of spotty toning gives extra appealing look. Couple tiny scratches on obverse did not affect the grade. Great collectible and investment item!
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| Slot: |
Davenport 569 |
| Origin/Country: |
GERMANY - STATES - 2 Germany, Bavaria. Ludwig I (1825-1848). |
| Design Description: |
Geschichtstaler. Commemorative - for the Custom Union. |
| Item Description: |
Silver TALER 1833 BAVARIA - CUSTOMS UNION 569 |
| Grade: |
NGC MS 63 |
| Research: |
View Coin |
Owner Comments
“My dear Ludwig!” - exclaimed Friedrich Wilhelm III through shining eyes underneath somber brows - “Enough playing games, I have seen through them all already! All of your attempts to unify the South under your political influence break upon the rocks of Prussian economic superiority. What good lies within your Custom Unions when all of your allies promise you one thing yet actually run to me behind your back and beg for economic favors? Yes, I refer to your friends Leopold and Wilhelm, those who rule Baden and Wurttemberg… they already sent emissaries to me and asked me to take them within our trade union. And furthermore, you yourself dream of a unified and strong Germany, yet Prussia, as you know, is the largest and strongest territory. And your currency! Of course I value your Guilders but let us acknowledge the truth - within every region is witnessed the superiority of the Vereinsmunze Talers. For this reason, my dear friend, the sooner that we (and I refer to Prussia and Bavaria) embrace each other within a solitary Custom Union, there will the economy be firmest, of our lands and of Germany.”
King Friedrich took a mouthful of wine from his crystal glass. He and King Ludwig I sat in the ornate Great Hall of the Palace. The meeting between the two monarchs occurred behind closed doors in solitude, and only one theme dominated the discussion: the establishment of a unitary economic climate within German lands. Slowly, King Ludwig rose from his armchair and took a few slow, measured steps. Within his head, thoughts tore away at his patience. He understood perfectly well that Prussia dominated Bavaria in economy and in sheer territory. He also understood that all of his efforts in the creation of the 1828 Southern Custom Union have fallen by the wayside and he can no longer exert his influence in the region at hand. Something needed to be done, and coincidentally, King Friedrich decides to visit the Palace. “You speak of Wurttemberg and Baden?” Said the King, exhaling slowly and setting his wineglass upon the table. “I understand perfectly well, dear Friedrich, your intentions to unify the region under Prussia’s centrality. You would have all other regions as your vassals paying their dues to Your Highness.” With this Ludwig met the gaze of the Prussian king head-on. “I am speaking of an economic union - politically, Bavaria shall remain as its own subject of influence with its own boundaries and with its own king.” Friedrich did not break the gaze of the Bavarian monarch. Friedrich began: “You already have lost Hessen and soon shall lose Wurttemberg, dearest Ludwig. Let us set aside all prejudices and make a decision that will benefit us all and all of the German people.”
Friedrich took another swig of wine. Ludwig eyed the Prussian monarch carefully. Ludwig asked, “How is it that we can unify all of the Custom Unions - South, North, and the Thuringian States?” Friedrich replied sharply, “My dear friend! Today I have invited Herr Friedrich List from France, our famous compatriot and the finest economist in the world and he shall, within the month, formulate a plan for a transition to a new economic level, to a, say, unitary German Custom Union. We shall unify the North, Central, and Southern Unions under the same economic rules and currency, to honor a Unified Germany!” - and Friedrich straightened his back to his full stature with wineglass in hand, seeming to offer a toast to the Bavarian king. “Splendid!” exclaimed Ludwig, also raising his glass to meet the Prussian’s, “to the flourishing and economic unification of Germany!” He understood that today he needed to strike this deal in order to avoid the collapse of the Southern Union, yet tomorrow would be a different day and nobody could know how Austria would behave herself, another great power in the massive chess game that is United Germany.
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And thus the German Custom Union was born. Soon over 20 million Germans would live under the same Customs rules and tariffs. The monetary system as well as all measurements experienced a unification. The economy grew, railroads were constructed, and banks were blooming - especially the Central Bank of Prussia. Yet the economic unification did not bring a political peacetime to the German states. Due to Prussian dominance over the other German states, the states grew more and more unstable and as a result, Prussia and Austria declared war on each other in 1866. The political instability grew to such a great extent that even Bavaria and some other medium-sized members of the Zollverein such as Hesse-Kassel, Hannover, and Nassau joined Austria in her fight against the Prussian regime - but this is another story to come…
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German Talers since 1800 by John S. Davenport.
Bavaria, King Ludwig Series (1825 - 1848).
Taler 1833, CUSTOM UNION.
Davenport 569, KM 762 (403), Thun 61, AKS 128, J.43.
Commemorative - for the Custom Union with Prussia, Saxony, Hesse and Thuringia.
Obverse: Head of the Ludwig I to the right, LUDWIG I KOENIG VON BAYERN. ZEHN EINE FEINE MARK.
Reverse: ZOLLVEREIN MIT PREUSSEN, SACHSEN, HESSEN U. THURINGEN, standed figure of godness of trade with caduceus, conucopias and anchor with prow of ship. 1833 below.
NGC MS 63+.
28.0600 g., 0.83300 Silver, 0.7515 oz. ASW.
Commemorative "Historic" Taler of Ludwig I of Bavaria - to Commemorate the Custom Union between Bavaria, Prussia, Saxony, Hesse and Thuringia. Attractive smoky toning with full luster preserved, mirrored fields with only some contact marks and hairlines, better-for grade appearance - great collectible uncirculated find for ANY german coins collector!! Popular coin on market!!
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