10 Ducats - Frederick I Type II

Frederick I of Sweden — born Frederick of Hesse-Kassel — came to the throne in 1720 largely as a constitutional figurehead following the collapse of Swedish absolutism after Charles XII's death. Real power rested with the Riksdag and the competing Hat and Cap factions. Multiple-ducat pieces of this period were not circulating currency; they functioned as diplomatic gifts and presentation pieces distributed at court, which explains why survivors tend to appear in exceptional condition despite their age.

The Type II designation distinguishes this from the earlier portrait variety. SM#2 is a rare reference number to encounter in trade.