1 Ducat - Jakob von Salza

Historical Context: The 1525 Ducat of Jakob von Salza, Prince-Bishop of Breslau (1520-1539), emerges from a tumultuous period. As the Reformation gained momentum, Salza navigated the complex religious and political landscape of Silesia, an ecclesiastical principality within the Bohemian Crown. This gold coinage served as a potent symbol of his temporal and spiritual authority, asserting the Bishopric's sovereignty amidst widespread religious upheaval, underscoring the enduring power of the Catholic Church in this vital region.

Artistry: The design reflects the German Renaissance numismatic style prevalent in Central Europe during the early 16th century. While the engraver remains anonymous, the craftsmanship typically showcases a robust, often stylized, bust of Bishop Salza on the obverse, rendered with a degree of realism characteristic of the era. The reverse commonly features the intricate armorial bearings of the Bishopric of Breslau, surmounted by a mitre and crozier, flanked by the date, all executed with precise heraldic detail and transitioning Gothic-to-Roman lettering.

Technical/Grading: Struck in gold to a standard of 3.54 grams, this ducat exhibits characteristics typical of early modern minting. Key high-points for grading include the definition of the bishop's facial features, vestment folds, and the intricate details of the armorial crest. Well-preserved examples display a strong, even strike across the flan, with full legends and minimal planchet irregularities. Common technical issues include minor off-centering, slight weakness on opposing design elements, and occasional minor die flaws, all impacting overall sharpness.