German States, Nassau 6 Kreuzer (Wilhelm I)
Country of Origin: Duchy of Nassau (German States)
Year of Issue: 1835
Denomination: 6 Kreuzer
Composition: Billon (low-grade silver)
Brief Description
A small, dark silver coin featuring a crowned shield with a lion on the obverse and the denomination within a wreath on the reverse.
Historical Significance
Issued under Wilhelm, Duke of Nassau (reigned 1816–1839). It follows the South German monetary system used before the full unification of Germany.
Estimated Value
$10 - $25 in circulated condition, $60 - $120 in high About Uncirculated or Mint State grades.
Care Instructions
Do not clean or polish. Store in PVC-free holders (like the cardboard 2x2 flip shown) to prevent further oxidation or 'pvc rot'. Handle by the edges.
Mint Mark
Not visible; typically minted at the Wiesbaden Mint.
Mintage & Rarity
Common for the series; several hundred thousand were likely produced.
Weight & Diameter
Standard: approx. 2.45g, 20mm diameter.
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
Very Fine (VF). The coin shows moderate wear on the lion's mane and crown, with significant original detail remaining but darkened surfaces (toning/patina).
Obverse (Front)
Crowned coat of arms for the Duchy of Nassau featuring a lion rampant. Legend: WILHELM HERZOG ZU NASSAU.
Reverse (Back)
The numeral '6' above 'KREUZER' and the date '1835', all enclosed within an oak and laurel wreath.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition/grade is the primary factor. High eye appeal and original luster significantly increase value, while cleaning or scratches decrease it.
Similar Coins
Often confused with neighboring states like Hesse-Darmstadt or Frankfurt which also used the Kreuzer system, but the Nassau lion and Wilhelm legend are diagnostic.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Relatively low value makes counterfeiting rare for this specific date, but check for casting bubbles or incorrect weight. Authentic coins are struck, not cast.
Notable Varieties & Errors
No major die varieties are widely recognized for this specific year; however, slight variations in the wreath leaf count can sometimes occur.
Created At: 2026-06-03T21:23:17.255067