The "Aureus Magnus" issues were privately produced fantasy pieces — not official Federal Republic coinage — struck by a German private mint in the late 1950s and early 1960s for the collector and medal market. The Marathon designation ties this piece to a broader series commemorating ancient Olympic events, riding the wave of enthusiasm surrounding the 1960 Rome Olympics. They circulated among collectors rather than commerce, which is precisely why survivors almost invariably appear in pristine condition.
The "Aureus Magnus" issues were privately produced fantasy pieces — not official Federal Republic coinage — struck by a German private mint in the late 1950s and early 1960s for the collector and medal market. The Marathon designation ties this piece to a broader series commemorating ancient Olympic events, riding the wave of enthusiasm surrounding the 1960 Rome Olympics. They circulated among collectors rather than commerce, which is precisely why survivors almost invariably appear in pristine condition.