Attention: due to customs regulations we can only ship inside the European Union. Please ensure you have a valid EU shipping address before placing a bid. Large silver coin amulet pendant of a Thaler struck 1698 at Braunschweig Calenburg-Hannover with a value of 24 Mariengroschen. -> Mariengroschen coins were small silver denominations issued in various German territories during the early modern period. Their adaptation as pendants reflects the long-standing practice of wearing coins as protective charms, keepsakes, or devotional objects. Obverse: ERNEST: AUGUST: D: G: D: BR: ET: L: S: R: I: ELECT: E: O. Wild man holding tree to the left. Reverse: SOLA BONA QUAE HONESTA .XXIIII. / MARIEN GROSCH V. FEIN. SILB: *** Diameter: ± 36,8 mm Ref: Davenport 414 Condition: good and solid condition, wearable, complete with silver suspension loop. The surfaces show light wear and fine scratches consistent with circulation and later use as jewellery. Certificate of Authenticity: available upon request (pdf-format). -> In the 17th century sailors and merchants often wore silver coins as amulets for protection and good luck, and they also kept them as a form of portable currency for emergencies. This dual purpose reflects both the cultural beliefs of the time and practical needs during long voyages or uncertain trade endeavours. -> Ernest Augustus of Brunswick-Calenberg-Hanover (1629–1698) was a prince of the House of Welf who greatly increased the status and influence of Hanover. Ruling from 1679 until his death in 1698, he strengthened the territory politically and dynastically, and in 1692 secured its elevation to the rank of Elector within the Holy Roman Empire. He is especially notable as the father of George Louis, the future King George I of Great Britain, through whom the House of Hanover later came to the British throne. -> Braunschweig-Calenberg-Hannover was a branch of the House of Welf within the Holy Roman Empire, centred on the principality of Calenberg with Hanover as its main city. Over time, Hanover grew in political importance and eventually became the best-known name for the territory. In 1692 the rulers were elevated to the rank of Elector, and in 1714 the House of Hanover also inherited the British throne, creating a significant personal union between Great Britain and Hanover. The state played an important role in North German and European politics until the 19th century. Material: This object has been carefully examined for its material and surface characteristics. Laboratory analysis (e.g. XRF) is not routinely undertaken in private collecting, and destructive testing is avoided as it causes permanent damage to archaeological material. Before modern hallmarking, gold and silver alloys varied depending on local resources, recycling practices and economic conditions.