Few topics of numismatic collections see such a close connection between local patriotism and monetary history as in the case of Tyrolean numismatics. After all, Tyrolean coins have shaped the monetary history of Europe. The guldiner from Tyrol was the world’s first large silver coin with a value equivalent to one gold gulden. Tyrol’s second numismatic innovation was the water-powered rolling mill. This was essentially the first minting machine for mass production in the history of money.

There are two main reasons why Tyrol became so important for numismatics. Firstly, the region had an abundance of silver, meaning that many coins could be minted in Tyrol. Secondly, it was ruled by the Habsburgs. At the time, this dynasty had connections as far afield as Spain, Italy, Bohemia and the New World. Most Tyrolean coins were produced at the Hall mint, which became one of the most important mints in the entire Habsburg Empire. In fact, it was one of the few medieval mints that continued to produce coins until comparatively recently: the Austrian commemorative coins for the 1976 Winter Olympics were minted in Hall.

And by the way: every good collection on the topic of Tyrol should also include the first niobium coin, issued by Austria in 2003. Produced to mark the 700th anniversary of the town of Hall, it depicts the first guldiner.

What knowledge do I need when I want to collect Tyrolean coins?

Actually, you do not need any prior knowledge to start collecting Tyrolean coins and medals. All you need is an interest in history. This will prompt you to read about the exciting history of this country and its rulers, discovering that coins perfectly illustrate these events.

What criteria can I use to collect Tyrolean coins?

There are several approaches you can take when it comes to coins from Tyrol. The simplest option is to collect everything that fits your budget and is related to Tyrol in some way. The advantage of this approach is that you will find so much material that you will never have to stop collecting. Another option would be to limit yourself to a specific denomination, tracing its development through monetary history – the kreuzer or taler, for example. Then, of course, there are collectors who focus on a ruler or an era. Maximilian I, for instance, was not only a fascinating character, he also commissioned many exciting coins. Last but not least there are collectors who want to have a specific denomination or all denominations of every Tyrolean ruler. Whatever your approach will be, the most important thing is that you enjoy the subject!

A few words to conclude

Tyrol is a beloved homeland for many and an inspiring holiday destination for many more. Tyrolean coins and medals offer a possibility to discover this region from an additional perspective. However, you should always keep one thing in mind when collecting: decide beforehand whether you want to collect just for fun or also want to see the coins as an investment. If it is the latter, please do not buy damaged coins. To avoid purchasing counterfeits, only buy from specialist dealers who guarantee the authenticity of the coins. If you bear these two points in mind, you will be able to enjoy the topic of your new collection for a long time to come.

Those interested in Tyrolean numismatics have many options when it comes to determining the topic of their collection. However, one rule always applies: you should choose a topic that fits your budget.

If your budget is very limited, we recommend the many different types of small coins from Tyrol. You can acquire many interesting pieces with prices starting in the double digits. You can expect that rarer types and varieties cost 200 euros, and only in very, very rare cases to cost more.

However, this amount will also be enough to get you one of the more common Tyrolean talers in attractive quality. This is because many Tyrolean talers were minted in large volumes, therefore only extremely rare and well-preserved pieces fetch prices above 1000 euros. Of course, the great rarities of Tyrolean numismatics are significantly more expensive. Representative guldiners from the Renaissance period in perfect condition, in particular, often fetch five-figure sums.

Like most collectors, you might dream of the icon of Tyrolean numismatics, the first guldiner from 1486 issued on behalf of Sigismund called “rich in coins”. If you are lucky, you will be able to acquire a beautiful piece for between 7,000 and 10,000 euros. Perfect guldiners fetch prices starting at 20,000 euros.

Further reading in German

The volumes resulting from the collaboration between archivist Heinz Moser and numismatist Heinz Tursky remain highly relevant and inspiring. Attention: these books are only available from an antiquarian. You will find a wide range of antiquarian books in our literature auction sales.

• Die Münzstätte Hall in Tirol 1477-1665. Innsbruck 1977
• Die Münzstätte Hall in Tirol 1665-1809. Innsbruck 1981

Mittelalterliches Geld- und Bankwesen zwischen Alpen und Adria. Bozen 2021

The Tyrolean Numismatic Society

Worthwhile Trips

Hasegg Castle

If you would like to see where many of Tyrol’s coins were minted, we recommend visiting the museum of Hasegg Castle in Hall (Austria). As well as seeing many coins and medals, you will get to admire minting tools from various eras. The highlight is the reconstructed rolling mill, which you can occasionally see in action.

https://www.muenze-hall.at/

Mercantile Museum Bolzano

If you are interested in economic history as well, the Mercantile Museum in Bolzano (South Tyrol, Italy) is an absolute must. As well as seeing many coins, you will learn about the importance of the city of Bolzano in international monetary transactions. The museum is housed in the old commercial court, where disputes between foreign merchants that arose during the Bolzano trade fair were settled immediately.

https://www.handelskammer.bz.it/de/dienstleistungen/merkantilmuseum