Maximiliaan I, Duits keizer 1688 - 1739

This small silver coin depicting Maximiliaan I, Holy Roman Emperor, was created by Christian Wermuth, a German medalist and die cutter, during the late 17th or early 18th century. This object provides a fascinating window into the social and political landscape of the Holy Roman Empire. Coins such as this were not just currency; they were powerful tools of propaganda and commemoration. The portrait of Maximiliaan I would have reinforced his image and authority. The inscriptions, with their dense text, served to communicate specific messages about his reign, achievements, and affiliations. To fully understand this coin, we need to consider its context. Who was Wermuth and what was his relationship to the imperial court? What were the key events and concerns of the time that this coin might be referencing? Numismatic collections and historical archives are crucial resources for this kind of research. By exploring these questions, we can begin to unpack the complex social and political meanings embedded in this small, but potent, object.