My First Wildman Coin: A Collector’s Thrilling Discovery

The Moment I Fell in Love

I’ll never forget holding my first Wildman coin – a 1661 Braunschweig-Wolfenbüttel Thaler. That hefty silver piece immediately stole my heart! Just look at that wildman tearing up a tree by its roots – pure primal energy captured in metal. Funny enough, I got it from another collector who didn’t feel the magic, but for me? Instant connection. Now I’m completely smitten with these historical gems and can’t wait to share the journey with you.

Unraveling the Coin’s Mysteries

As a Wildman newbie, questions flooded in as soon as I examined it closely. Notice that subtle concave curve? With our hairy friend stretched along the outer bend like a basketball, I wondered – could this be from those old roller presses they used for big coins back then? The more I learned, the more that theory held up. That curve might also explain why the reverse looks a bit soft around 3 to 6 o’clock. And get this – the obverse legend translates to “Consider everything with care.” Isn’t that wonderfully ironic next to the wildman’s absolute chaos?

The Grading Rollercoaster: From Doubt to Delight

I sent my treasure to NGC for grading – I prefer slabbed coins in my collection. Honestly, I prepared for disappointment since so many Wildman thalers get details grades for bends or weak strikes. The wait was agonizing! When my local coin shop called with results, I made them promise no spoilers. Walking in, my hands actually trembled as they revealed the slab. You should’ve seen my face when it came back straight graded! Turns out this particular coin has a nickname – the “houseboy” Taler – because our wildman looks like he’s sweeping the forest with a broom. Even a details grade wouldn’t have dimmed my love, but this clean result? Pure collector bliss.

Practical Insights for Fellow Collectors

This adventure taught me some great lessons worth passing along:

• Grading Expectations: Don’t sweat details grades on older thalers – bends and soft strikes are common with roller-pressed coins. Many collectors actually appreciate these quirks as part of their history.
• Market Observations: What fun hunting different types! You’ll find variations from Brunswick-Lüneberg to Hohnstein, each with unique wildman designs that keep the chase exciting.
• Handling and Preservation: Always use airtight holders when submitting coins. And please – never try flattening a bent coin yourself. You’ll likely damage it and guarantee that details grade.
• Research Tips: Translate those legends – you’ll uncover delightful surprises. Dig into nicknames too (like “houseboy”) – they add such character. Dealers and online forums are fantastic for spotting rarities.

Why I’m Now a Wildman Enthusiast

That first Wildman coin sparked something real in me – I’m already plotting my next acquisition! There’s just something magical about the history, artistry, and treasure-hunt thrill these pieces offer. Whether you collect German thalers, silver coins, or just love a great numismatic story, give Wildmans a look. Maybe you’ll get lucky with a straight grade too – but even if not, I promise you’ll gain an amazing piece of history. Happy hunting!