A Silver Legend; The Story of the Maria Theresa Thaler

عن الكتاب

A silver Legend is the story of a remarkable silver coin, the Maria Thersea thaler and the extraordinary and crucial role it has played in history from the eightreenth century to the present day. Drawing on travellers diaries, government papers, consular reports, and the records of mints, banks and bullion dealers, Clara Semple relates how the thaler financed military expeditions, colonial wars, ransom payments, and diplomatic and international intrigues.Prized for its consistent silver content, its beautiful and intricate design, bearing the imperious profile of the Empress and the majestic Hasburg eagle, it quickly became imbued with amuletic properties. Not only was it incorporated into elaborate necklaces, intricate headdresses, dagger hilts, and pendants, but it provided a vital source of silver for indigenous jewellery in the countries where it circulated.