10 Ducats - Charles Philip

Historical Context: This 1717 10 Ducats coin was issued by Charles Philip (Karl Philipp von der Pfalz), who became Elector Palatine and Duke of Jülich-Berg in 1716. The year 1717 marks an early period in his reign, during which he aimed to consolidate Wittelsbach dynastic power and prestige within the Holy Roman Empire. As a significant gold denomination, the 10 Ducats served not only as a high-value medium of exchange but also prominently as a store of wealth, a diplomatic gift, and a tangible symbol of the ducal authority and economic prosperity of Jülich-Berg, a strategically important territory on the Rhine.

Artistry: The design of this large gold ducat exemplifies the late Baroque stylistic school, characterized by its grandeur and detailed execution. The obverse typically features a finely rendered, laureate, and draped bust of Duke Charles Philip, often facing right, encircled by his extensive titles. This portraiture conveys classical authority and regal presence. The reverse usually displays the elaborate ducal arms of Jülich and Berg, frequently quartered with the Palatinate lion and Bavarian lozenges, all surmounted by a crown or electoral cap. The intricate heraldry underscores the ruler's lineage and territorial claims, with the date and denomination completing the design.

Technical/Grading: Struck from nearly pure gold (.986 fine) with a substantial weight of 34.33 grams, this 10 Ducats coin is a significant piece. Key high-points for grading include the highest curls of the wig or laurel wreath and the folds of the drapery on the obverse portrait. On the reverse, critical areas are the crowns atop the shields, the intricate details of the lion's mane, and the small lozenges within the quartered arms. Due to its large flan, these coins were often struck with considerable force, resulting in sharp details, though occasional central weakness or slight die shift can be observed. Original cartwheel luster is highly desirable and often well-preserved on these less circulated, high-value issues.