1 Ducat - Johann Ehrenreich Tin Trial strike, Klippe

Historical Context: This 1717 tin trial strike for a ducat reveals the minting intentions of Johann Ehrenreich, Count of Sprinzenstein, a prominent Austrian noble house. The early 18th century saw Habsburg consolidation, yet imperial counts retained coinage rights. Producing a ducat, a primary gold trade coin, underscored the Count's status and economic aspirations. As a trial, this piece precedes the intended gold issue, offering direct evidence of the principality's minting process.

Artistry: The klippe trial ducat's design reflects the prevailing Baroque aesthetic of Central European coinage. While the engraver is unrecorded, artistry would feature a dignified bust or elaborate armorial bearings of Count Johann Ehrenreich on the obverse, rendered with characteristic vigor. The reverse would likely display the Sprinzenstein family crest or a religious motif. The square klippe format, unusual for a standard ducat, suggests a special issue or deliberate artistic choice for this preliminary stage.

Technical/Grading: As a tin trial strike, this piece tested the dies and design integrity before gold production. High-points, such as the Count's effigy or heraldry details, would be critically examined for full impression. The unusual 13.16 gram weight for a nominal 1 Ducat (typically ~3.49g) suggests it might be a module piece for die durability testing or a preliminary strike for a multiple ducat. The Klippe form demands precise striking for crisp edges and squareness, paramount for evaluating die performance.