| Obverse description |
Half-length figure to right, wearing rob and electoral hat, holding sword over right shoulder, divides IOH - GEOR, shield of 4-fold arms, with central shield of electoral Saxony in front divides date. |
| Obverse script |
Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
VERBVM DOMINI MANET IN ÆTERNVM. |
| Reverse description |
Half-length figure to right, wearing rob and electoral hat, holding sword over right shoulder, divides FRID - III, shield of 2-fold arms of electoral and ducal Saxony in front divides 15 - 17. |
| Reverse script |
Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
SECVLVM LVTHERANVM. |
| Edge |
|
| Mint |
|
| Mintage |
1617 - -
|
| Numisquare ID |
1004443030 |
Historical Context: Issued in 1617 by the Electorate of Saxony under John George I, this 5 Ducats coin commemorates the Centenary of the Reformation. As a leading Lutheran prince of the Albertinian line, John George I leveraged this anniversary to assert Saxony's pivotal role as a stronghold of Protestantism. The coin celebrates 100 years since Martin Luther's Ninety-five Theses in Wittenberg, an event profoundly reshaping the religious and political fabric of the Holy Roman Empire, just prior to the Thirty Years' War.
Artistry: While specific engraver attribution may vary, this coin reflects the sophisticated German Renaissance-Baroque style of the Dresden mint. The obverse typically features a finely detailed, armored bust of Elector John George I, showcasing intricate ruff and regalia, embodying regal authority. The reverse design undoubtedly presents rich iconography referencing the Reformation, possibly depicting Luther, Melanchthon, or allegorical figures, executed with realism and symbolic grandeur characteristic of the period's commemorative medallic art.
Technical/Grading: Struck in substantial gold at 17.02 grams, this 5 Ducats typically features a broad, well-prepared flan. High-points for strike weakness or wear include the Elector's hair, crown, and facial features on the obverse, and any prominent figures or architectural elements on the commemorative reverse. Examples with a strong, even strike that fully renders the intricate details of both the Reformation iconography and the ruler's portrait are highly prized, showcasing the mint's ability to produce large-denomination gold issues with exceptional clarity.