Sale: CNG 67, Lot: 2003. Estimate $200.  Closing Date: Wednesday, 22 September 2004.  Sold For $126. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

SWITZERLAND, Beromünster Abbey. 18th-19th century. AR Half Gulden (Michelspfennig) (5.49 gm). Unidentified engraver. Garnished coat-of-arms of Beromünster / Archangel Michael, helmeted, holding flaming sword and shield, trampling left on a demon. Ruffled edge. Inwyler 24; KM 1. Good VF, toned, light scratches. Rare. ($200)

The "Michelpfennige" of Beromünster were first struck in 1720, on the 1000th anniversary of the founding of the abbey by Bero of Lenzberg in the canton of Lucerne. The dates spanned by the careers of the identified engravers suggest they were struck for at least 100 years afterwards, being presented as awards and gifts to honored recipients.