Yes, a medal. The designs of the two sides, however, were taken from Westphalian "notgeld" issued during the hyperinflation period. One side shows Carl vom Stein, a Prussian minister who spent part of his life, and died, in Westphalia. The other side depicts the poet Annette von Droste-Hülshoff who was born near Münster, Westphalia. Contrary to other notgeld issues, these Westphalian coins never actually circulated; they were rather souvenirs and fundraisers. Mintage of this medal was about 10,000. The price should be around €150 for a VF/ss piece ... Christian
To see what I meant (regarding the two sides taken from two coins) have a look here: http://www.beutler-muenzen.de/rubrik584.htm This dealer's page lists various Westphalian issues, including your medal. I have my doubts about the "1 Bio. Mark" - your piece does not have a face value - but it seems that this (bottom right image) is the type you have. Christian
If you were wondering what the medal actually reads: Minister from Stein. Germany's leader in difficult times. Annette from Droste-Hülshoff. Westfalens poet.
Right, except I would not translate name parts into English. Here is some info about the two: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heinrich_Friedrich_Karl_vom_und_zum_Stein http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Annette_von_Droste-Hülshoff The Stein side of the medal was designed by Rudolf Bosselt; the Droste-Hülshoff side was made by Anton Rüller. Christian
Lol I know about the names. I just always get a kick out of literal translation. I find it funny how names were created like that in the old days
Good to have you here yuval. I didn't respond to your post earlier as I had no knowledge of this piece to share with you. As I suspected, the experts in these issues chimed in and you now have your answer. All I wanted to say was; Very nice medal and thanks for posting it. Bruce
