AUSTRIA. Salzburg, Erzbistum. Franz Anton von Harrach, 1709-1727. Kreuzer 1720 (Copper, 17 mm, 1.21 g, 12 h), Wine Token. F / AVH Monogram of Franz Anton von Harrach. Rev. F / GH / 17 - I - 20 Monogram above value and a cluster of grapes. Probszt 2701. Zöttl 3587. Tiny marks and deposits, otherwise, very fine.


These tokens were originally intended as a social measure, giving miners in the Salzburg salt mines discounted access to consumer goods. The first of these tokens are documented as early as the 16th century. The reverse designs - here, a cluster of grapes - indicated the token’s purpose to a workforce that was still largely illiterate. In 1734, the tokens were withdrawn due to widespread misuse.