Expert: Dmitry Livshits - 10/29/2009

Question
I have two coins I believe are Italian maybe Spanish?.  I am not sure if they are genuine minted coins or if they are from a gift shop.

On the front of the coin is a woman with a braided bun with a crown on top of it.  And the words on the front read:  Maria Anna Augusta Ferdinandi I Imp Et Regis. And on the back it reads: Et Altera MIIII Pateria Coron Prague Mense Sept MDCCCXXXVI.  The back also has a crown on a pillow and olive branch and a shield with a lion standing.

Your help in identifying these coins is appreciated.

Tammy

Answer
Hi Tammy,
I actually have one of these exact medallions as well.
It is to mark the 1836 coronation of Maria Anna Augusta Fernandi, of Prague (Czech Republic).
Although the piece is fairly common and made in a crude fashion, I do believe them to be original to the event and year 1836 or thereabout.
As far as value, a decent one sells for around $5, up to $10 if it has strong details. Many are weakly struck and have flat areas where details like hairlines and facial features should be.
Thanks for the question! =)