10 Ducats - Christina

Historical Context: This imposing 10 Ducats coin, issued by the City of Erfurt between 1645 and 1648, is a powerful numismatic testament to the final, tumultuous years of the Thirty Years' War. Erfurt, a Free Imperial City, found itself under Swedish occupation from 1631, and this coinage reflects the suzerainty of Queen Christina of Sweden, who reigned from 1632 (solely after 1644). Such large gold denominations were crucial for financing military operations, paying troops, or facilitating high-value transactions during a period of immense conflict and economic strain, underscoring Erfurt's strategic importance and its complex political allegiance as the Peace of Westphalia approached.

Artistry: The design of this 10 Ducats coin is characteristic of the German Baroque style prevalent in the mid-17th century, though often executed with a more regional flavor in smaller mints. While the specific engraver for Erfurt during this period is not consistently documented, the obverse typically features a finely rendered, draped or laureate bust of Queen Christina, reflecting her regal authority. The reverse commonly displays a multi-line inscription or the city's coat of arms, symbolizing Erfurt's identity even under Swedish influence. The overall aesthetic balances royal portraiture with municipal or imperial heraldry, common for coinage of the Holy Roman Empire's constituent states.

Technical/Grading: Struck from nearly pure gold (.986 fine) and weighing a substantial 34.49 grams, this 10 Ducats coin represents a significant piece of currency. Key high-points for wear assessment include Christina's hair details, the highest points of her crown or laurel wreath, and the folds of her drapery on the obverse. On the reverse, the raised elements of any inscription or the details within the city arms would show wear first. Due to 17th-century minting techniques, examples often exhibit varying strike quality, including minor planchet irregularities, off-centering, and adjustment marks. Original luster can be present on well-preserved, uncirculated specimens.