1569, Livonia, Riga (City). Scarce Billon Silver Schilling Coin. VF+
Mint Year: 1569 Reference: Haljak 933. Denomination: Schilling Condition: Minor greenish deposits, otherwise VF+ Material: Billon Silver (low grade silver and bronze alloy) Diameter: 17mm Weight: 1.08gm
Obverse: Gatehouse with lion in gate. Legend: * CIVITATIS RIGEN
Reverse: Cross above keys in saltire (arms of Riga). Date ([15]6-9) at sides. Legend: * MONETA . NO . ARG
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.