20 Ducat - Gustav II Adolphus

Emittente Pomerania, Swedish dominion of
Anno 1633
Tipo Commemorative circulation coin
Valore 20 Ducats (20 Dukaten) (70)
Valuta Thaler (1630-1815)
Composizione Gold (.986)
Peso 70 g
Diametro
Spessore
Forma Round
Tecnica
Orientamento
Incisore/i
In circolazione fino al
Riferimento/i KM#M13, Ahlström#2
Descrizione del dritto King Gustav II Adolf lies out of the battlefield, two angels carrying his soul to heaven.
Scrittura del dritto Latin
Legenda del dritto GUSTAVUS ADOLPHUS MAGNUS D:G:SUEC:GOTH:&VAND:REX AUGUSTUS VEL MORTUUM FUGIUNT EUGE SERVE FIDELIS
Descrizione del rovescio Gustavus, wearing armor and holding a Bible and a sword, riding in a chariot drawn by three winged horses over the Hydra of Discord; to left, Faith, holding a Bible topped by a flaming heart and, to right, Courage, holding a column, both crowning the king with a laurel wreath; on the chariot wheel.
Scrittura del rovescio Latin
Legenda del rovescio DUX GLORIOS : PRINC : PIUS : HEROS INVICT : VICTOR INCOMPARAB : TRIUMPH : FELIX & GERM : LIBERATOR : Ao 1633 : ET VITA ET MORTE TRIUMPHO
Bordo
Zecca
Tiratura 1633 - -
ID Numisquare 1434871970
Informazioni aggiuntive

Historical Context: The 1633 20 Ducat of Pomerania is a powerful numismatic testament to Gustav II Adolphus, the "Lion of the North," and the Swedish Empire's ascendancy during the Thirty Years' War. Issued shortly after his death at Lützen in 1632, this coin from a vital Swedish dominion solidifies his enduring legacy as a Protestant champion and military genius. Its substantial gold weight underscores the significant wealth and political authority Sweden commanded in Pomerania, a strategic acquisition.

Artistry: The design of this monumental ducat exemplifies the Northern European Early Baroque style, characterized by robust portraiture and intricate heraldry. While the specific engraver is unrecorded, the execution reflects a master die-cutter's skill. The obverse typically features a dignified, often laureated or armored, bust of Gustavus Adolphus, projecting regal power. The reverse would display elaborate armorial bearings, likely combining Swedish royal insignia with Pomeranian regional arms, symbolizing unified dominion.

Technical/Grading: As a large-denomination gold coin weighing 70 grams, the 20 Ducat exhibits exceptional technical qualities. High-points for wear or strike weakness are typically observed on the highest relief elements of the portrait, such as hair, crown details, and armor contours. On the reverse, intricate heraldic crowns and lion's manes are key areas. The impressive .986 gold purity ensures a lustrous surface. A strong, even strike is paramount for such a significant piece, though minor planchet irregularities can occur due to its substantial size.

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