Riksdaler

GMK:164

A riksdaler coin is always made of silver. They are usually about 4.5 cm in diameter and weigh between 25 and 30 grams. They typically feature the portrait of the king or queen on the front and the national coat of arms on the back. Riksdaler coins are also available in denominations of 1/2 riksdaler, 1/3 riksdaler, 1/6 riksdaler, 1/12 riksdaler, and 1/24 riksdaler, with the smaller denominations being proportionally smaller in size. In 1830, the state began minting riksdaler specie.

A few years later, it was determined that 1 riksdaler specie would have a value of 2 2/3 riksdaler banco, which is the currency issued by the Riksbank. 1 riksdaler specie was also worth 4 riksdaler riksgäld, which, in turn, is the currency issued by Riksgälden. Riksdaler specie was also equivalent to precisely 25.5 grams of pure silver. Riksdaler were used in Sweden from the early 17th century until 1873.