For sale is a genuine 13th-century silver denar (pfennig) struck under Bishop Wilhelm von Holte of the Bishopric of Münster, Germany, dated to his extremely brief reign of 1259–1260. Wilhelm was elected bishop in July 1259 and died by the end of 1260, making this coin a product of one of the shortest episcopal reigns in Münster’s history — and one of the rarer issues from this ecclesiastical state.

Obverse: Bishop seated facing, wearing mitre, holding crozier and raising hand in blessing.

Reverse: Head of Saint Paul facing right with halo; right hand holding sword.

This type is referenced as Ilisch XI.1 and is seldom seen on the open market. The coin displays clear design elements on both sides with natural age patina consistent with a genuine medieval silver issue. A wonderful piece of German ecclesiastical numismatic history over 760 years old.

• Metal: Silver (AR)

• Type: Denar / Pfennig

• Issuer: Bishopric of Münster — Wilhelm Von Holte

• Date: 1259–1260

• Reference: Ilisch Münster XI.1

Ships securely in a protective coin flip.

Combined shipping available.