Maria Theresa Thaler (MTT) Restrike Silver Coin
Coin/Bullion · Austrian Mint (Münze Österreich) and various international mints including London, Venice, and Bombay. Originally designed by T.M. Schabl and F.W. Guglielmi.
Pattern: Maria Theresa Thaler, 1780 Archduchess design. It is the most famous silver trade coin in history.
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Austrian Mint (Münze Österreich) and various international mints including London, Venice, and Bombay. Originally designed by T.M. Schabl and F.W. Guglielmi.
Material
83.3% Fine Silver (.833 silver), balance Copper. Gross weight is approximately 28.0668 grams with 0.7516 troy oz of fine silver content.
Dimensions
Diameter: 39.5mm (approx. 1.55 inches); Thickness: 2.5mm; Weight: 28.1 grams (0.9 troy ounces approx).
Description
An iconic piece of numismatic history, this silver Thaler features the veiled bust of the Archduchess of Austria. It is renowned for its consistent silver content and beautiful craftsmanship, making it a stable currency in regions where local paper money was mistrusted.
Key Features
The 'X' after the date 1780 (indicates a restrike from 1850 onwards), the 'S.F.' mint master initials, and the distinct widow's veil on the Empress's head.
Material & Composition
83.3% Fine Silver (.833 silver), balance Copper. Gross weight is approximately 28.0668 grams with 0.7516 troy oz of fine silver content.
Finish & Decoration
High-relief die-struck finish. Features the profile of Empress Maria Theresa facing right with a widow's veil. The reverse (not fully visible) features the Imperial Double-Headed Eagle of the Habsburg Dynasty. Legend in Latin: 'M. THERESIA D. G. R. IMP. HU. BO. REG.'
Hallmarks & Stamps
Initial 'S.F.' usually appears below the bust, representing the Günzburg mint masters Schoebl and Faby. The 1780 date is a frozen date, meaning almost all coins found today are modern restrikes.
Construction Details
Mechanically die-struck planchet with a unique lettered edge inscription for security against clipping: 'IUSTITIA ET CLEMENTIA' (Justice and Clemency).
Functional Features
Historical trade currency used across Africa and the Middle East; currently serves as a bullion investment piece or collector's item.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable (coinage). To be handled by the edges to prevent skin oil transfer and surface corrosion.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck but based on original 18th-century hand-engraved dies. Exhibits superior detail in the hair, drapery of the veil, and the intricate double eagle and coat of arms on the reverse.
Authentication Indicators
Weight (approx 28g) and diameter (39.5mm) are the primary indicators. Lettered edge should be crisp. Surfaces show natural toning rather than the flat gray of lead/zinc fakes. Note: 1780 is a 'frozen date' and does not indicate year of manufacture.
Origin & Manufacturing
Originally Vienna or Günzburg (Austria/Germany). Over 300 million have been struck by various countries under license to serve as a reliable silver standard for commerce.
Era & Period
Late 18th-century design (Empress Maria Theresa reigned 1740–1780). Known as the 'Levant Thaler', it dominated global trade well into the 20th century.
Age Estimate
Late 20th century to modern restrike. While dated '1780', the clarity of the design and typical restrike characteristics suggest a post-1945 production.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of Austrian imperial power and the primary tool for trade between Europe and the Ottoman Empire/East Africa for over 200 years.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F) circulation grade. Shows significant surface tarnish/toning (sulfide patina) and 'bag marks' (small scratches). No signs of cleaning, which preserves the antique aesthetic.
Value Estimate
Current market value is primarily based on silver spot price plus a small collector premium ($30 - $45 USD). Rare early mintages (pre-1850) can command significantly higher prices.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean with abrasives or polishes which destroy numismatic value. Store in an acid-free PVC-free flip or capsule. If desired, a mild dip in a professional silver cleaner can remove heavy black tarnish, but original patina is preferred by many.
Similar Pieces
Spanish 8 Reales (Piece of Eight), American Morgan Silver Dollar, and French 5 Franc Hercules. These were competitors in the global 19th-century trade market.
Interesting Facts
Until 1935, these were legal tender in Ethiopia. It was so trusted in the Middle East that local merchants frequently refused other currencies, including the US Dollar, in favor of the 'Fat Lady' coin.