16 mark, Stockholm, Karl IX, 1607
<p>Coins were minted in higher denominations than ever before during the reign of Karl IX. In 1604, a decision was made to mint “a kind of coin called Carolines” from melted-down ungersk gyllen coins, which were made of gold. One caroline was worth the same as 16 marks.</p><p>The coins had to weigh 4.96 grams, of which the weight of pure gold – what is known as the fine weight – was 4.85 grams. The first carolines/16-mark coins were minted at the end of 1605.</p>
<p>Karl IX is wearing a laurel wreath on his head on the first carolines. This coin was made after the king was crowned in 1607, and so he is wearing a crown instead.</p>
<p>It should also be noted that eight and four-caroline coins were minted under Karl IX. They often featured a loop and were presented by the King to deserving individuals who would wear this honour on a chain around their neck.</p>
Image rights: Helena Bonnevier, Ekonomiska museet - Kungliga myntkabinettet/SHM (CC BY 4.0
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)Object number: 108841_KMK
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