| Aversbeschreibung |
Draped bust of King Christian V facing right with long and curly hair, wearing the pendant of the Order of the Elephant. |
| Aversschrift |
Latin |
| Averslegende |
CHRIST • V • D • G • DAN • N • V • G • REX •
(Translation: Christian V Dei Gratia King of Denmark, Norway, the Wends and the Goths) |
| Reversbeschreibung |
Ship sailing left in Christiansborg harbor, with city view in background. The ship has Dansk Vestindisk Compagnie initials on its stern. Date below, in exergue |
| Reversschrift |
Latin |
| Reverslegende |
CHRISTIANS : BORG • DWC _______________ 1699 • |
| Rand |
|
| Prägestätte |
|
| Auflage |
1699 - -
|
| Numisquare-ID |
1169017170 |
Historical Context: This 1699 2 Ducats, from Christian V's last year (1670-1699), reflects Denmark's absolute monarchy and mercantile expansion. Christian V, author of the Danske Lov, advanced colonial ambitions via the Dansk Vestindisk Compagnie (DVIC), chartered 1671, managing Danish West Indies territories. "Christianborg" for this gold ducat likely signifies the Copenhagen mint (associated with Christianborg Palace) producing coinage under royal authority for the DVIC's international trade, underscoring Denmark's global reach.
Artistry: It embodies the late Baroque style prevalent in European coinage. Obverse features a finely rendered, draped bust of Christian V, facing right, projecting regal authority. While specific engraver signatures are not typical, the piece reflects the high craftsmanship of the Copenhagen mint, likely by masters like J. H. Schultz or David Kocker. The reverse features the crowned Danish royal arms, frequently encircled by the Collar of the Order of the Elephant, a detailed heraldic composition.
Technical/Grading: For grading, prioritize the sharpness of Christian V's portrait on the obverse, focusing on his wig, facial details, and drapery. On the reverse, critical are escutcheon definition within the crowned shield, clarity of the Order of the Elephant chain, and the crown's precise rendering. Legibility of the date and legends on both sides is essential. A strong, even strike with minimal adjustment marks and preserved luster, especially in fields, contributes to superior grades.