1776 Bavaria Silver Thaler (Conventionsthaler) – Maximilian III Joseph (Munich Mint)

1776 Bavaria Silver Thaler (Conventionsthaler) – Maximilian III Joseph (Munich Mint)

This is a classic “Madonna” thaler from the Electorate of Bavaria, one of the most iconic and popular types in German States numismatics. Struck during the reign of Elector Maximilian III Joseph, these large silver pieces feature the Patrona Bavariae (Protector of Bavaria) reverse and were part of the Convention currency system.

Key Details:

•  Issuer: Electorate of Bavaria (Holy Roman Empire)

•  Ruler: Maximilian III Joseph

•  Mint: Munich (no mintmark visible on this example, standard for many issues)

•  Date: 1776

•  Catalog References: KM#519.1, Davenport 1953 

•  Composition: Silver (.833 fine)

•  Weight: 28.06 grams

•  Diameter: ~40–42 mm

•  Obverse: Draped and armored bust of Maximilian III Joseph right, with long curly hair and star of an order on the chest. Legend: D•G•MAX•IOS•U•B•D•S•R•I•A•&•EL•L•L (“By the Grace of God, Maximilian Joseph, Duke of Upper and Lower Bavaria, Arch-Steward and Elector of the Holy Roman Empire, Landgrave of Leuchtenberg”).

•  Reverse: Crowned and haloed Madonna (Patrona Bavariae) seated on clouds/crescent moon with the Christ Child, holding orb and scepter, surrounded by radiant rays. Legend: PATRONA BAVARIAE (“Protector of Bavaria”), date 1776 below.

The Madonna design symbolizes Bavaria’s Catholic devotion and patronage. These thalers were widely circulated and collected for their beautiful religious iconography.

This raw example displays strong circulated details with a clear portrait (good hair and facial features), sharp legends, and well-defined Madonna/Child design on the reverse. Some typical wear, marks, and attractive old toning consistent with its age and history. A solid representative of this popular Bavarian Madonna type for collectors of German States silver.

Coin pictured is the exact one you will receive.