Owner Comments:
Obverse: Crowned shield within circle
Obverse Legend: FLOR AN GV. C O (28) E D D I IE E K
Reverse: Value in circle on breast of crowned imperial eagle, 28 in orb on breast within circle
Reverse Legend: FERD II D G ROM IMP SEMP AV
Ruler: Anton Günther
Composition: Silver
Anton Günther is listed as a ruler of Oldenburg, Schleswig and Holstein from 1603 - 1667. Son of Johann VII and grandson of Anton I.
Interesting note: The current Duke of Oldenburg passed away. His name was Anton Günther.
Early in the 16th century Oldenburg was enlarged at the expense of the Frisians. Protestantism was introduced into the county by Count Anton I (1505-73), who also suppressed the monasteries; however, he remained loyal to Charles V during the Schmalkaldic War, and was able thus to increase his territories, obtaining Delmenhorst in 1547. One of Anton's brothers, Count Christopher of Oldenburg (about 1506-60), won some reputation as a soldier. Anton's grandson, Anton Günther (1583-1667), who succeeded in 1603, considered himself the wisest prince who had yet ruled Oldenburg. Jever had been acquired before he became count, but in 1624 he added Kniphausen and Varel to his lands, with which in 1647 Delmenhorst was finally united. By his neutrality during the Thirty Years' War and by donating valuable horses to warlord Count of Tilly, Anton Günther secured for his dominions an immunity from the terrible devastations to which nearly all the other states of Germany were exposed. He also obtained from the emperor the right to levy tolls on vessels passing along the Weser, a lucrative grant which soon formed a material addition to his resources. In 1607 he erected a Renaissance castle. After the death of Anton Günther, Oldenburg fell again under Danish authority.