Two imperial decrees imposing severe restrictions on the residence, property, and economic activities of Jews in the Duchy of Württemberg. Germany, 1521 and 1530. German.

1. Decree issued by Emperor Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor, prohibiting Jews from lending money at interest to residents of the Duchy of Württemberg. Brussels, 25 June 1521.

The decree states that loans granted by Jews at interest – whether secured by land, property, or fixed revenues – shall be deemed null and void and will not be accorded legal validity. Furthermore, Jews engaged in such activities will not enjoy legal protection, their claims will be rejected, and their property will be confiscated.

[1] folded leaf (one printed page). Approx. 32 cm. Good condition. Stains, creases, minor tears and marginal blemishes.

2. Decree issued by Emperor Charles V, confirming and tightening the earlier 1521 decree. Augsburg, 15 October 1530.

Issued during the Imperial Diet of Augsburg (Reichstag zu Augsburg, 1530), the decree reiterates and reinforces the prohibition on loans at interest by Jews, nullifying the legal validity of promissory notes based on interest, even if ostensibly drawn up as interest-free loans. In addition, it forbids Jews from residing or travelling within the Duchy of Württemberg without explicit license from the local authorities and imposes a heavy fine of one hundred marks of pure gold on anyone who violated or assisted in violating its provisions.

[2] folded leaves (5 printed pages). 32.5 cm. Good to fair condition. Stains, creases, tears and marginal defects.