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Hussite Heller with Crown (15th Century), Replica of the Smallest Czech Coin (Tin,11 mm)
You are holding a replica of the smallest currency of Hussite Bohemia – the Heller with a crown. This tiny, one-sided coin represented the lowest denomination that a beggar, a peasant, or a common Hussite foot soldier might encounter. Its simple yet powerful motif of the Crown of Saint Wenceslas served as a reminder of the sovereignty and continuity of the Bohemian Kingdom, even on the smallest of coins and in times of the deepest social upheaval. This tin replica, made using authentic medieval techniques, is the perfect accessory for historical costumes, an indispensable item for 15th-century re-enactment, and a wonderful tool for anyone wishing to illustrate the daily life of our ancestors. Further product information ...
The following variants are currently available:
Hussite Heller with Crown (15th Century), Replica of the Smallest Czech Coin (Tin,11 mm)
A Symbol of Power on the Smallest Coin
Despite its minuscule size, this coin carries an important message. Its design was geared towards maximum production efficiency.
- Obverse (Crown of St. Wenceslas): The front side bears a single, yet crucial, symbol – the Crown of Saint Wenceslas. This coronation jewel, a symbol of the Czech state and its heavenly patron saint, was an emblem that unified the land. Its depiction on the coin legitimized the currency and affirmed its validity throughout the kingdom.
- Reverse (Smooth Side): The back of the coin is smooth. As with the slightly larger peníz, this was a technique of one-sided minting that allowed for the rapid mass production of small coins for the needs of the general population.
The Heller in the 15th-Century Monetary System
The Heller (in Czech: Haléř) was the smallest Bohemian coin in the late Middle Ages. Its value was set at 1/14 of a Prague groschen, meaning it was worth half as much as the peníz with the Bohemian lion. For a heller, one could only afford the most basic necessities – a few eggs, a piece of cheese, or perhaps pay for a night's stay in the poorest of shelters. The originals were minted in the royal mint in Kutná Hora from low-quality silver.
For re-enactors and living history groups, the heller is absolutely indispensable. It was these small coins that made up the majority of the currency in the pouches of ordinary people, and their presence will lend maximum authenticity to your costume and gear.
A Faithful Replica from Mincovna Dukát
This artistic replica was struck in 2012 by the Czech Mincovna Dukát mint. The die was hand-engraved by medallist Vojtěch Dařbujan, who adhered to historical models and technologies. Each coin is thus a small original, faithfully imitating the appearance and character of its medieval predecessor.
Replica's Technical Specifications:
| Material | Tin |
| Minting Type | One-sided |
| Diameter | approx. 11 mm |
| Thickness | approx. 0.8 mm |
| Weight | approx. 0.5 g |
How to Care for Your Heller
Due to its very small size and low weight, the coin must be handled with care to avoid loss. Tin is a soft metal, do not bend the coin. Store it ideally in a pouch or box. Use a dry, soft cloth for cleaning. Warning: Extremely small size! This product is not suitable for children under 3 years due to the high risk of inhalation or swallowing.
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