1 Ducat - Maximilian II

Historical Context: This 1622 1 Ducat was issued by Maximilian II, Count of Fugger-Babenhausen-Wellenburg, during the tumultuous early Thirty Years' War. The Fugger family, renowned bankers, had attained imperial immediacy, granting them sovereign coinage rights. This ducat reflects their economic prowess and political autonomy amidst conflict, demonstrating their ability to mint high-value gold currency essential for international commerce and military expenditures across the Holy Roman Empire.

Artistry: Specific engraver attribution is often unrecorded for this period; however, the coin's design adheres to the prevailing early Baroque style common in German states. The obverse typically features a dignified, stylized bust of Count Maximilian II, surrounded by his titulature. The reverse commonly displays a complex armorial shield of the Fugger family, surmounted by a count's coronet, signifying their elevated Imperial status. Intricate heraldic details are a hallmark of contemporary die-work.

Technical/Grading: Struck in nearly pure gold (.986 fine), this ducat weighs 3.5 grams. Key high-points for wear or strike weakness include the highest relief of the ruler's hair, nose, and any crown or drapery on the obverse; on the reverse, the coronet's uppermost elements and intricate shield charges. Well-preserved examples exhibit sharp details and original luster, though minor planchet imperfections or slight off-centering are not uncommon, reflecting early 17th-century minting technology.