1 Ducat

Historical Context: Stralsund, a prominent Hanseatic city, issued this 1 Ducat in 1655, a period of recovery post-Thirty Years' War. Despite formal Swedish suzerainty after the Peace of Westphalia (1648), the city retained its ancient right to strike coinage, reflecting its economic autonomy and importance as a Baltic port. The issuance of gold ducats, an international trade currency, underscored Stralsund's resilience and commitment to commerce amidst reconstruction, asserting its municipal identity despite external political influence.

Artistry: The artistry, typical of Northern German municipal mints mid-17th century, reflects a local master's work within the late Renaissance or early Baroque tradition. While the engraver remains anonymous, the design commonly features Stralsund's heraldic griffin, robustly depicted to symbolize civic pride. The reverse typically bears a cross, standing figure, or value inscription, executed with a sturdy, functional aesthetic emphasizing legibility and symbolic clarity over elaborate courtly flourishes.

Technical/Grading: This 1 Ducat, struck in .986 fine gold and weighing 3.49 grams, typically exhibits a strong strike, characteristic of prestigious gold issues. High-points for a griffin design include its head, wings, and talons; for lettering, the tops of characters. While planchet quality varied, well-preserved examples retain significant original luster. Minor strike weakness might appear on highest relief areas or edges due to uneven die pressure, but the denomination's importance generally ensured careful production.