Angster

The Angster is a historically significant small coin that played an important role in regional currency, particularly in Switzerland. Originally, the Angster was a low-value hollow copper penny minted in Basel in the 14th and 15th centuries. This type of coin was characterised by its simple, hollow shape and low weight, which made it widely used for everyday transactions. As a hollow penny, the Angster was mainly used for small transactions and was therefore an essential element in local payment transactions.
The long circulation period of the Angster is particularly interesting for numismatic research. While the first coins were minted in Basel, the coin was also adopted and further developed in other regions of Switzerland. In Lucerne, for example, the Angster was still being minted until the 19th century, which underscores its enormous durability and popularity in regional trade. This exceptionally long period of minting makes the Angster a fascinating object for collectors and historians alike, as it reflects economic and political developments over several centuries.
From a numismatic point of view, the Angster belongs to the so-called divisional coins, i.e. coins with a material value that is significantly lower than their nominal value. This was particularly advantageous in times of economic uncertainty, as production costs could be kept low. Despite its low value, the Angster was widely circulated, as evidenced by the relatively large number of surviving pieces today – albeit often in a heavily worn condition, which indicates its intensive use.
The design of Angster coins varies depending on where and when they were minted, but is usually simple. Religious symbols, simple coats of arms, or letter abbreviations are often found, allowing conclusions to be drawn about the place of minting. For numismatists, Angster coins thus offer an exciting field of research, especially with regard to urban history and monetary policy in medieval and early modern Switzerland.
Today, Angster coins are sought-after collector’s items, valued not only for their historical value but also as impressive testimonies to everyday life in centuries past. The Angster therefore has a firm place in coin collections, museums, and numismatic auctions as a symbol of a simple but durable means of payment with deep regional roots.