1 Ducat - Charles Rudolph and bishop John Francis Schenk of Württemberg

Historical Context: Issued in 1737 by the Swabian Circle, this 1 Ducat coin jointly features Charles Rudolph, Duke of Württemberg-Neuenstadt, and John Francis Schenk of Stauffenberg, Prince-Bishop of Constance. This era within the Holy Roman Empire saw intricate power dynamics between secular and ecclesiastical territories, cooperating through Imperial Circles for defense and administration. Charles Rudolph represented secular authority; Bishop Schenk, spiritual and temporal power. Joint issues underscored the Circle's semi-autonomous fiscal authority and the complex alliances defining 18th-century German states.

Artistry: While the specific engraver is unrecorded, the coin’s design adheres to the prevailing late Baroque aesthetic of the early 18th century. Expect formal, detailed busts of the two rulers, adorned with elaborate wigs and drapery, characteristic of period portraiture. The reverse typically features intricate heraldry, combining the arms of the Swabian Circle, Württemberg, and the Prince-Bishopric of Constance, rendered with dynamic flourishes and rich symbolism common to Baroque numismatic art. High relief, typical of ducats, enhances these details.

Technical/Grading: Struck in nearly pure gold (.986 fine) at 3.5 grams, this ducat often exhibits a generally sharp strike. However, the metal's softness can lead to minor weakness on the highest design points. Key areas for wear and strike quality include the rulers' hair and facial features (nose, chin), and intricate heraldic details. Era minting technology, likely screw press, generally allowed good detail, but minor planchet imperfections or slight flatness are not uncommon.