1 Ducat - Oscar I large head

Oscar I ascended the Swedish throne in March 1844, and this ducat was struck almost immediately in the opening months of his reign — the "large head" variety reflects the first portrait die prepared for the new king before it was reduced and recut for subsequent years. The type was replaced quickly enough that 1844–1845 represents the entire lifespan of this specific die pairing.

Swedish ducats of this period were minted primarily for trade and diplomatic gift-giving rather than domestic circulation, a function the .976 fine standard served well in European commerce.