Thought I would backfill two Talers recently received: 1) 1603-K Rudolph II Taler NGC MS-63. It was sent to NCS for conservation as it was clearly a well struck coin having an extremely dark layer of toning to it, covering underlying luster and distracting in eye appeal. My concern was getting a bleached coin which was not the case. Post treatment, coin had preserved its appearance only with a more even tone exposing the elaborate detail and slight iridescent toning. The eagle on reverse and Rudolph's facial hair, Madonna and Child on obverse show how well this coin is struck. BEFORE: AFTER: 2) 1599. Germany. Brunswick-Wolfenbuttel. Heinrich Julius (1589-1613) AR "Wasp Taler". Goslar Mint. DAV-9093. Welter-630. Obv: Crowned lion seated left, surrounded by ten wasps; eagle with wings spread above; to left, rays emerging from cloud. Rev: Twelve coats-of-arms. Nicely toned. NGC AU-58. I received this coin in trade for another duplicate and will keep this in the collection. When I saw this one I reflected on the coin's design and history which can be found in worldcoinguy's thread from 2009 - http://forums.collectors.com/messageview.cfm?catid=6&threadid=749043 . These Brunswick Talers are quite symbolic depicting historical/religious themes.
Even though I know very little about these coins and their history, I love looking at them. Congrats on the positive outcome.
