SWITZERLAND. Bern. Stadt. Sechzehnerpfennig (Silver, 43 mm, 25.71 g, 12 h), circa 1667-1680. SENATVS ET SEDECIMVIRI REIP BERN • Bear walking to left. Rev. + LIBERIS CVRAE LIBERTAS Two arms emerging from clouds, holding sword and scepter; above, radiant sun above laurel wreath. Haller 763. SM 603. Beautifully toned. Good very fine.


This is the earliest of the impressive Sechzehnerpfennige, which were handed out from 1667 in Bern each year on Holy Thursday to the Sechzehnerausschuß des Großen Rats (Committee of Sixteen of the Grand Council)