Mariazell 1157–1957 Austria 25 Schilling Silver Commemorative Coin

Condition Notes:

Circulated example with moderate surface wear throughout. The Mariazell basilica design remains clear, though architectural fine lines show softness from circulation. Reverse shields and lettering are fully readable with light flattening. Fields show scattered contact marks and small rim nicks typical of circulated vintage silver. Lettered edge text remains visible. Please look at photos and judge for yourself.

Description:

From the estate of my grandfather, an antique dealer in Austria, this is an original 1957 Austria 25 Schilling Mariazell commemorative silver coin. Designed by the renowned Austrian engraver Edwin Grienauer and struck by the Austrian Mint (Münze Österreich), this coin honors the 800th anniversary of the Mariazell Basilica, one of Austria’s most important pilgrimage sites.

Specifications:

• Denomination: 25 Schilling  

• Year: 1957  

• Weight: 13.00 g  

• Diameter: 30 mm  

• Composition: 0.800 silver (80% silver / 20% copper)  

• Actual Silver Weight (ASW): ~0.3344 troy oz  

• Edge: Lettered — “FUENFUNDZWANZIG SCHILLING”  

• Mintage: 4,999,000  

• Engraver: Edwin Grienauer  

• Mint: Austrian Mint (Münze Österreich)

Historical Background:

Issued to commemorate the 800-year anniversary of the Mariazell Basilica (1157–1957), this coin celebrates one of the most historically significant religious sites in Central Europe. Mariazell has served as a major pilgrimage destination for centuries, famed for its sacred statue of the Virgin Mary and its role in Austrian cultural identity.

Why it matters:

This coin is a key piece in the early Austrian 25 Schilling commemorative silver series. Collectors value it for its architectural theme, classic mid-century Austrian design, and solid silver content. Its connection to one of Austria’s most revered pilgrimage landmarks gives it strong appeal among world silver, religious-themed, and Austrian Mint collectors.

Storage Note:

Stored in a protective sleeve in a temperature-controlled environment. Never cleaned or polished, preserving its original vintage surface.

Cross-sell closer:

If you’re collecting Austrian 25 and 100 Schilling commemorative silver coins from the 1960s–1970s, please check my other listings from the same carefully preserved family collection.

Look at my other auctions.

Estimated Condition:

Fine (F)