1571, Riga (Independent City). Beautiful Billon Silver Schilling Coin. XF!
Mint Year: 1571 Reference: Neumann 9. Denomination: Schilling Condition: A beautiful XF for this issue! Material: Billon Silver (low grade alloy) Diameter: 18mm Weight: 0.98gm
Obverse: Gatehouse with lion in gate. Legend: * CIVITATIS . RIGENSIS
Reverse: Cross above keys in saltire (arms of Riga). Date ([15]7-I) at sides. Legend: * MONETA . NO . ARGENT
Riga developed as the main merchandise centre of the Livonia Confederation and was a chain between merchants of Western Europe and Lands of Russia. In order to defend its trading interests, Riga joined the Hanseatic League during the late 13th century. Bishop Albert moved his residency here from Ikskile in 1201-02, thus establishin
g the Bishopric of Riga (the Archbishopric since 1255). Riga had its own coat of arms and flag since 1220's until 1581. When the Livonia Confederation was dissolved in 1561, Riga got the status of free city on the same year. This status lasted until 1581, when Riga had to accept the reign of Poland as the result of later phases of Livonia War.