“Royal Rescript” issued by Frederick V [of Denmark] [Present-day Germany etc; Duchy of Schleswig-Holstein]: “We, Fredrick V, have learned from your report [that Jews are abusing loans made against pledges and are engaging in irresponsible usury which harms no less the craftsmen and day-laborer in Altona* and forces them into poverty …] which is why we have decided in all seriousness and order you graciously herewith that you are to inform all Jews with a public patent and at the threat of loss of the money lend against pledges […] that they are not to accept (and make loans against) any pledges in the future that are not written on permits made of stamp-paper, and where the loan-amount is not exactly specified with numbers and letters (exactly) […] and to refrain from charging any interests. […]” [Researcher’s note: *Altona is an old district in the city of Hamburg, Germany.]
Chronologische Sammlung der in den Jahren 1748 bis 1751 ergangenen königlichen und Verfügungen für die Herzogthümer Schleswig und Holstein, die Herrschaft Pinneberg, Grafschaft Ranzau und Stadt Altona. (“Chronological collection of royal orders issued in the Duchies of Schleswig and Holstein, the Lordship of Pinneberg, County of Ranzau and the city of Altona.”); (Kiel; 1826); Researched and Translated by Ziba Shadjaani 4/11/2020