A Prominent Noble Family of the 16th Century
The Schlick family was one of the most significant noble and entrepreneurial dynasties of 16th-century Bohemia. Stephan Schlick (ca. 1487–1526) and his brothers played a crucial role in Bohemian economic and political history, particularly in mining and coinage.
They descended from an old noble family from western Bohemia, where they acquired extensive estates.
1 1/2 Thaler 1526
Joachimsthal – A Silver Mining Hub
The Schlicks made history through their entrepreneurial vision, taking control of silver mining in Joachimsthal(modern-day Jáchymov) at the beginning of the 16th century. Due to the rich silver deposits, the town quickly became one of the most important mining centers in Europe.
In 1516, Stephan Schlick and his brothers founded a silver mining company, gaining significant economic influence. At the same time, they had to overcome numerous obstacles in their efforts to maximize profits from silver extraction.
Stephan Schlick
Coinage Rights and the Establishment of the Joachimsthal Mint
Joachimsthal was located within the royal Loket estate, which the Schlicks held only as a pledged fief. The right to mint coins (mining regalia) belonged exclusively to the king, and without his approval, no coinage or export of unminted metal was permitted.
As a result, the entire Schlick mining operation in Joachimsthal could only proceed with the approval of the Bohemian Estates, who effectively controlled the Bohemian Kingdom under the reign of Louis II of Jagiellon.
After complex political negotiations, the Schlicks managed to secure the approval of the Bohemian Assembly in 1520to mint their own coins—the famous thalers.
Learn more about the first Joachimsthal thalers in the article: Schlick’s Double Thaler of 1520 – The Origins of Joachimsthal Coinage
2 Thaler 1520
Stephan Schlick’s Fate at the Battle of Mohács
Stephan Schlick was also a known supporter of the Reformation and a close ally of Protestant estates. During the Battle of Mohács in 1526, he was killed in battle against the Ottomans, marking the symbolic end of an era.
However, his family remained active in Bohemian political and economic life for another century. With Stephan’s death, the Schlicks lost their leading figure, weakening their position in the subsequent struggle against Ferdinand I.
JAROSLAV KOKOLUS COLLECTION – Rare Thalers
At Auction #35, collectors will have the opportunity to bid on rare thalers and their multiples, including:
- 1 1/2 Thaler from 1526 – a unique specimen, featured in the Davenport and Nemeškal-Vorel publications, starting price €40,000
- Schlick’s Double Thaler from 1520 – a rare example of multiple-denomination Joachimsthal thalers, playing a crucial role in Central European coinage history. Starting price: €50,000
- Silver medal from 1529 – 2 1/4 Thaler – Medal on the occasion of the first Turkish invasion. Joachimsthal. Remains of mint lustre in the fields. Nice patina. Extraordinary specimen! Very rare! Starting price: €10,000
Exclusive Coin Auction – How to Participate?
Don’t miss Auction #35, taking place on April 25, 2025, in Prague. This auction will feature the Jaroslav Kokolus Collection, while a traditional numismatic auction, Auction #36, will also be held, offering additional exceptional coins and numismatic treasures.
Bidding methods in floor auctions:
- In person on the floor – Join the auction directly at the venue - Hotel Mandarin Oriental, Prague.
- By phone – Place your bids via a phone call.
- Live bidding via the AUEX auction system – Participate in real-time through the AUEX platform.
- Prebidding via the AUEX auction system – Submit your maximum bid in advance through the AUEX auction system.
eLive Auction
Auction #36 will, as always, continue with the eLive session, where, in addition to coins and medals, you will also find a selection of rare banknotes. The eLive auction will take place on April 27–30, 2025, starting at 18:00.
Bidding methods in eLive auctions:
- Live bidding via the AUEX auction system – Participate in real-time through the AUEX platform.
- Prebidding via the AUEX auction system – Submit your maximum bid before the auction starts.
AUEX Auction System: Join the auction
