Expert: Dmitry Livshits - 10/31/2009

Question
I came upon this coin for my collection and am interested in the coin's worth.  The coin is worn of course from it's age, 1794.  There are no gouges and all of the lettering and numerals on the coin are fairly clear.  Some a little more worn then others, but still legible.  I appreciate any input you have for me regarding the value and any other facts you may provide for me.
I thank you in advance for all of your help.


Answer
Hi Bill,
This sounds like a silver Kronenthaler series piece from the Austrian Netherlands. I have attached a picture of a similar coin.
There are three denominations: 1/4, 1/2 and 1 kronenthaler. These coins are similar in size to the US quarter, half and dollar. The relative weights for genuine pieces are 7.36, 14.72 and 29.44 grams. However, a circulated coin will be slightly lighter. Anything that is more than a gram lighter for a smaller coin and 2 grams for the large one is suspicious for a counterfeit.
As far as value, an average circulated 1/4 for this date starts at $10 and goes into the $30-$50 range for an A mark below the bust and $50 to $100 for a B below the bust.
The half and full kronenthalers from 1794 all start at $20 to $30 for an average undamaged example and go into the $75 to $150 range for really nice specimens.
Thanks for the question! =)