Classic motifs: Maria Theresa
June 12, 2026 | Featured
The title of most classic motif surely belongs to the Maria Theresa dollar (or thaler) of 1780. Struck without any modification since 1781, this coin is recognized worldwide. Let s take a look at its history.
In 1780, Austria was divided into several states, each with the right to mint its own currency, as was the case in Germany and Italy. This right was shared with the central government, which also issued coins. That year marked the final year of the reign of Maria Theresa, widow of Francis I and mother of Marie Antoinette, Queen of France at the start of the Revolution.
From Coins and Canada