2 Ducats - Christina of Sweden

Historical Context: The 1635 2 Ducats of Mainz featuring Christina of Sweden is a numismatic testament to the tumultuous Thirty Years' War. Christina, born 1626, was Sweden's Queen regnant, though a minor. Mainz, a key Prince-Archbishopric, experienced Swedish occupation from 1631-1635. The Mainz mint issuing coinage with the Swedish monarch's effigy unequivocally signifies the city's subjugation or political alignment under Swedish suzerainty, a potent symbol of foreign dominance during geopolitical upheaval.

Artistry: While the engraver is anonymous, this 2 Ducats exemplifies German Baroque style, with lingering late Renaissance realism. The obverse typically presents a youthful, idealized bust of Queen Christina, reflecting her age and regal status. The reverse features the traditional arms of Mainz—the distinctive Wheel—often within an ornate cartouche, alongside the date. This striking juxtaposition of a Swedish queen on a German principality's coin is a profound artistic statement, broadcasting the shift in regional power.

Technical/Grading: Struck in .986 fine gold, weighing 7 grams and measuring 22 millimeters, this 2 Ducats is a substantial issue. For grading, critical high-points on the obverse bust include the highest hair strands, crown (if present), and shoulder drapery. On the reverse, attention focuses on the central details of the Wheel of Mainz. Due to hammered minting, planchet irregularities like minor edge splits are common. Strikes vary; central devices are often sharp, but legends or peripheral details may exhibit weakness.