Catalog
| Issuer | Liechtenstein |
|---|---|
| Year | 1728-1968 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 10 Ducats (20) |
| Currency | Thaler (1728-1868) |
| Composition | Gold (.986) |
| Weight | 35 g |
| Diameter | |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Fr#8 |
| Obverse description | Mantled bust of Prince Josef Johann Adam facing right. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
IOS : IO : AD : D : G : S : R : I : P . & GUB : DOM : DE LIECHTENSTEIN M (Translation: Joseph Johann Adam, by the grace of God, prince of the Holy Roman Empire, and governor of the House of Liechtenstein.) |
| Reverse description | Crowned and mantled coat of arms of Liechtenstein, with Order of the Golden Fleece below. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
OPP : & CARN : DUX · C · RITB : GRAN : HISP : P : CLAS : S · C · M · INT · CONS : 1728 (Translation: Duke of Oppavia and Carnovia, Count of Ritberga, Grandee of the first class of Spain, Privy Counsellor of the Sacred Imperial Majesty.) |
| Edge | |
| Mint |
M Munich, Germany (1158-date) |
| Mintage |
1728 - - 1 1728 (1966-1968) M - Fr# 8a; restrike - 50 000 |
| Numisquare ID | 6140795540 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 10 Ducats of Josef Johann Adam, dated 1728, originates from a pivotal period for the Principality of Liechtenstein. Josef Johann Adam (reigned 1721-1732) presided over the formal creation of the unified Principality in 1719, securing its Imperial immediacy. This substantial gold ducat, a prestige issue, served as a powerful declaration of the Prince's sovereignty and the newfound status of his realm, reflecting the opulence and political assertion of early 18th-century European aristocracy.
Artistry: The design of this magnificent ducat embodies the late Baroque aesthetic prevalent in Central European coinage. While the specific engraver for the 1728 issue is not always definitively documented, the style features a meticulously rendered bust of Prince Josef Johann Adam on the obverse, often depicted in armor or a classical toga, exuding authority. The reverse typically showcases the elaborate, crowned princely arms of Liechtenstein, a complex heraldic display symbolizing dynastic heritage and territorial claims, executed with remarkable detail.
Technical/Grading: As a large gold coin (35 grams of .986 fine gold), the 10 Ducats often exhibits a strong strike. Key high-points for assessing wear on the obverse include the Prince's hair, ear, cheekbone, and any laurel wreath or crown. On the reverse, critical areas are the intricate details of the princely crown atop the shield, the lion's head, and the eagle's wings. Original 1728 strikes may show minor planchet irregularities or slight die shift, typical of hand-hammered production, while later restrikes generally display more consistent quality.