This is a vintage Silver Thaler pendant, also called "Levante Taler" or "Levantine Taler". The Maria Theresa Thaler is probably one of the most well known coins of the world, it is large and beautiful. The Austrian Thaler was first minted by the Austrian Imperial Government as a trade coin, it was used all over the world. A large bale has been attached to the coin to turn it into a pendant. It measures approximately 1 5/8 inches in diameter (not including the attached bale). The entire pendant weighs 1.1 ounces on my postage scale, which converts to 31.18 grams. Although the date on the coin is 1780, almost all coins dated 1780 are restrikes. Just the value of the silver alone makes this a worthwhile piece of jewelry to own. This was purchased either in the 1970s or 1980s. 

The coin has a portrait of the Empress Maria Theresia who was born in 1717, she was Queen of Hungary and Bohemia and Archduchess of Austria. The inscription on the front is stamped "M. THERESIA D.G. R.S.F. IMP.HU.BO.REG." which according to the sites I visited, translates as: "Maria Theresia, by the grace of God Roman Empress, of Hungary and Bohemia Queen". Below the portrait are the initials "S.F.", which stand for the names of the mint officials in 1780, Tobias Schoebl (S) and Joseph Faby (F).

The reverse shows the regal imperial double-headed eagle with the arms of Austria at the centre, surrounded by four quarters representing Hungary, Bohemia, Burgundy and Burgau (Guenzburg). The inscription reads "ARCHID.AVST.DUX.BURG.CO.TYR.1780" and translates: "Archduchess of Austria, Duchess of Burgundy, Countess of Tyrol, 1780". The raised edge of the coin shows the motto of the Empress "IUSTITIA ET CLEMENTIA" (Justice and Clemency) with various designs.

It is in excellent vintage condition as you can see by the enlarged photographs. This would be a gorgeous gift for any coin collector. It is a stunning piece to wear, a real eye catcher and is full of history. There is even a book written about this coin.

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