Rare Icelandic 1000 Years Althing 10 Kronur Coin, 1930, with Box
Item Details
A very rare Icelandic 1000 Years Althing 10 Kronur Coin, 1930; with original box. Considered to be one of the most beautiful designs ever minted, this large 45mm silver coin was struck privately by the Saxon State Mint, Muldenhutten, Germany. It was created at the request of a parliamentary committee of the Icelandic `Althing’, to commemorate the 1,000-year anniversary of that legislative body. The Icelandic `Althing’, or ‘Althingi’ is one of the oldest parliamentary institutions in the world; founded in the year 930 A.D. at Thingvellir, Iceland; perhaps the earliest forerunner of the modern Western Democratic Republic style of governance. To the obverse of the coin is a magnificent relief of the King of Thule on his throne, with hands on the heads of kneeling children; it bears the initials EJ, for designer Einar Jonsson (1874-1954). To the reverse is the Icelandic coat of arms with sailing ship, shield, and crown; surrounded by four mythic creatures; it bears the initials B.B. for designer Baldvin Björnsson (1879-1945). The edge is smooth, with denomination of 10 Kronur engraved. Total mintage 10,101, Material: Silver 0.925 (Sterling).
Condition
Appears a bit tarnished but uncirculated; in original box.
Dimensions
Dimensions given are for coin; box is 2.375"W x 2.375’D x 0.75" H;
Total weight of coin is 1.125 ozt; 34.9 g.
Item #
14CIN017-045
Additional Information
History of the Icelandic Althing, Encyclopedia Birtannica reference, 'Althing', The Currency of Iceland, Coin Talk
