Expert: Dmitry Livshits - 10/26/2009

Question
Dmitry,
I have a coin I have been unable to find any information about. On the front is what appears to be some sort of tribesman. He is holding a staff or spear I believe and is standing in front of a row of trees(?). the letters I.A.P. are underneath. On the back is *1* with the words PFENNING SCHEIDE MUNTZ (I had mistaken the u in muntz for a v) underneath and 1765 is under that. Can you tell me anything about it?
Thank you.

Answer
Hi Rene,
This coin is from the German State of Brunswick-Luneburg-Calenberg-Hannover, which changed to the more familiar Hannover in 1814. The depiction is actually a wild-man holding a tree with branches on the left side. A spear or walking stick are common perceptions.
An interesting point, the ruler of this German state was British king George III during this period. The English royal line have traditionally held the throne of Hannover.
As far as value - these are fairly collectible coins. Auction prices typically range from $5 for a decent, worn example to $100+ for one in mint condition. Since I do not know the exact condition of this coin a range is all I can provide.
Interestingly, someone else had also asked this same question.
Thanks for the question! =)