By Sarah Corbett
Marie Thérèse Thalers are used as elements in silver jewellery and adornments in many counties. They are a visual representation of wealth.
Marie Thérèse Thalers, also known as Maria Theresa Thalers, are silver coins that were minted in the Austrian Netherlands (modern-day Belgium) and Austria during the 18th century. The coins were named after Maria Theresa (1717-1780), the Archduchess of Austria and Queen of Hungary and Bohemia, who ruled from 1740 until her death. The Maria Theresa Thaler is one of the most famous and widely circulated silver coins in history, renowned for its iconic design and historical significance.
The Maria Theresa Thaler was first minted in 1741 and became the standard trade coin in many regions of Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. The coin was minted in .833 fine silver and weighed approximately 28.0668 grams, with a diameter of 39 mm. The obverse of the coin features a portrait of Maria Theresa in profile, surrounded by the inscription “M. THERESIA D.G. R. IMP. HU. BO. REG.” (Maria Theresa, by the Grace of God, Empress of the Romans, Queen of Hungary and Bohemia). The reverse of the coin depicts the Imperial double-headed eagle with the Austrian shield on its breast, flanked by the date of minting and the value of the coin, which was typically five thalers.
The Maria Theresa Thaler was used in international trade and commerce for over two centuries and became one of the most widely recognized and accepted silver coins in the world. The coin was highly valued for its consistent weight and silver content, making it a trusted and preferred currency for conducting business transactions across different regions and cultures.
In addition to its economic significance, the Maria Theresa Thaler also holds cultural and historical importance. The coin’s design and inscription served as a symbol of the power and influence of the Habsburg Monarchy during the 18th and 19th centuries. The durability and reliability of the Maria Theresa Thaler contributed to its enduring popularity and widespread use in global trade.
The Maria Theresa Thaler continues to be minted to this day by the Austrian Mint in Vienna, Austria, as a bullion coin and collector’s item. The modern re-strikes of the coin retain the classic design and specifications of the original thaler, paying homage to its historical legacy and numismatic significance.
Today, the Maria Theresa Thaler is highly sought after by collectors, numismatists, and history enthusiasts around the world. The coin’s iconic design, historical provenance, and enduring popularity have cemented its status as a numismatic treasure and a symbol of Austria’s rich cultural heritage. The Maria Theresa Thaler remains a celebrated and cherished coin that continues to captivate and intrigue collectors and enthusiasts alike.
