Description

Albert the Magnanimous, also known as Albert II (1397–1439), was a key figure in the Holy Roman Empire and the House of Habsburg. As Albert V, he inherited the Duchy of Austria and, through his marriage to Elisabeth of Luxembourg, became King of Hungary, Croatia, and Bohemia. Elected King of the Romans in 1438, Albert supported his father-in-law, King Sigismund of Hungary, during the Hussite Wars and defended Hungary against Turkish invasions.

Despite a short reign, Albert's military and political efforts were significant. Upon Sigismund's death in 1437, Albert assumed the thrones of Hungary and Bohemia, though he faced challenges in controlling Bohemia. His involvement in the Hussite Wars underscored his commitment to defending the Catholic faith against heresy. Albert's contributions left a lasting impact on the region's stability and the Habsburg legacy.

Obverse

Depicts the fourfold coat of arms with twice Hungarian Árpád stripes and twice Bohemian lions within an inner pearl circle, lettering around "Albert, by grace of God, King of Hungary". A decoration of pearls runs around the edge.

+ALBERTVS · D · G · R · VNGARIE

Reverse

Depicts Ladislaus I (Saint Ladislas) holding his battle-axe and orb with a halo above his crowned head with the Latin inscription "Sanctus Ladislaus Rex" (Saint Ladislaus the King). On either side of the depiction, an Anjou lily is placed. A bead-like pattern runs around the edge.

Ladislaus I (1040–1095), also known as Saint Ladislas, ruled as King of Hungary from 1077 and King of Croatia from 1091. He was the son of King Béla I of Hungary and Richeza of Poland. Initially, Ladislaus and his brother Géza supported their cousin Solomon as king, but their relationship soured, leading to rebellion. After Géza's death, Ladislaus became king, facing resistance from Solomon and German King Henry IV. Ladislaus focused on restoring public safety, implementing strict laws, and expanding Hungary's territory into Croatia. He secured the kingdom's eastern borders against threats from the Pechenegs and Cumans. Ladislaus clashed with the Holy See over Croatia's sovereignty. Canonized in 1192, he is revered as a pious knight-king and remains a popular saint in Hungary and neighboring countries.

· S · LADIS LAVS · REX
K L

Edge

1 Florin

Kingdom
Huszar# 588 Unger# 457
Characteristics
Production Hammering
Material Gold
Fineness 0.986
Weight 3.54 g
Diameter -
Thickness -
Shape round
Alt # Unger# 457/h

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