Here is a coin depicting Prince Gabriel Bethlen Protestant Ruler of Transylvania. This part of the former Kingdom of Hungary owed allegiance to the Ottoman Sultan. After Sulieman routed the Hungarian Army at Mohacs in 1526, Hungary was partitioned. The Western part now was ruled by Habsburg Emperors.
Thanks Brandon! I really have a passion for Transylvanian coins. From 1560-1683 their mints produced some of the most spectacular coin designs...almost as if they were made for collectors back then. Prince Michael Apafi issued massive 100 Dukats, that were awesome, around 1680.
interesting, I did not know that, thank you so much for the information. How much do you think it would to cost me if I were to purchase a relatively inexpensive coin from that era?
Brandon: I am really not sure, I know the gold ones in high quality are expensive, Silver Thalers probably bit more affordable. Most Transylvanian coinage is up there in price. After it was returned to Habsburg rule, more coins were minted, lower prices therefore. But then what is the definition of "relatively inexpensive?" Best way to inform yourself, go to www.sixbid.com there you will find auctions that deal lots with Holy Roman Empire/Transylvania coinages. Good ones to check: Fruhwald/Rauch/Kunker/Pannonia Terra Numismatika/ Hope that helps you. John
