Watch List notes:

GERMANY. Grumbach Feud. Siege of Gotha. 3 Groschen, 1567. PCGS EF-40.
Korchnak-232; Mailliet Supp.-pl 44 #2; MO-4.1.5.7. Weight: 3.20 gms. 19.1 mm x 18 mm. Siege: 8 January - 13 April 1567. Irregular square flan with the arms of Elector of Saxony flanked by date (1-5/6-7), HHFGK above; Reverse: Raised denomination and monogram. This wholesome looking minor issue exhibits a good strike on a nicely made flan displaying attractive mottled gray patina with minor earthen deposits amongst the devices. The surfaces offer even wear with only minor marks or abrasions as one would expect from the grade. Pleasing to the eye, this small siege coin is attractive and original looking; certain to be a welcome addition to the next collection it enters.

Convinced of his right to the Electorate of Saxony, Johann Frederick II, under the false guidance of Wilhelm von Grumbach pursued his fathers claim to this title. Annoyed, the Holy Roman Emperor, Maximillian II, signed an imperial ban against Frederick II and demanded he turn Grumbach into the authorities. Forced by persistent refusal the Emperor authorized an imperial intervention and in late 1566 the city of Gotha was under siege. Eventually, Augustus, Elector of Saxony, who led the besieging forces was able to incite a mutiny ultimately claiming victory over the city and Grimmenstein castle on 13 April 1567. Later, many of the individuals involved were publicly executed by being quartered, hung or beheaded.

Estimate: $900 - $1200