Expert: Dmitry Livshits - 6/25/2010

Question
Hi Dmitry,
I've been trying to identify a particular silver (I think) coin that is in a friends World collection.  I've tried all the tricks I know via the internet etc., literally paged through the standard catalog, and come up with nothing.  The coin is silver dollar size and has what looks to be a old soldier with a helmet on and
a soldier standing erect on the reverse complete with a spear and shield. The bust head protrudes from the coin and it has the words "Friedrich Wilhelm III Koenig Von Preussen" around the outer edge.  At the bottom of the reverse it has "Das Reich Erhalten, den 16 November, 1797" - note 3 separate lines. Around the edge is has " Nur Euch Zu Schutzen Will Ich Mit Diesem Mich Rusten".  Your the expert but I'm guessing that it is some kind of German Prussian coin but have had zero luck trying to find it!  I'm not sure what my friend wants to do with it but whatever information you could provide will help him to determine what to do with it.   Thanks, I throw in the towel!

Answer
Hi Rick,
This is a commemorative medal, rather than a coin. You could have driven yourself mad looking through the Krause catalog all day (I've been there!). The commemoration is for the death of ruler Friedrich Wilhelm II and ascension of his son, Friedrich Wilhelm III. The medal is made of silver and should measure 41mm in diameter. It was designed by Loos, a well known manufacturer of fine medals.
In excellent condition you can expect an auction estimate of $100 to $150 on the American market and $175 to $250 on the European market.
Thanks for the question! =)