Ducat

Issuer Overijssel, Province of
Year 1673-1678
Type Standard circulation coin
Value 1 Ducat
Currency Gulden (1581-1795)
Composition Gold (.986)
Weight 3.5 g
Diameter
Thickness
Shape Round (irregular)
Technique Hammered
Orientation
Engraver(s)
In circulation to
Reference(s) CNM#2.38.50, KM#40, Delmonte G#1055
Obverse description Armored knight standing to right, dividing date, holding sword in right hand and bundle of arrows in left hand.
Obverse script Latin
Obverse lettering CONCOR RES PAR CRES TRAN
(Translation: Unity makes strength. Overijssel)
Reverse description Inscription in five lines on a square tablet, rosette in small shield below.
Reverse script Latin
Reverse lettering MO AVR PROVIN CONFOE BELG AD LEG IMP
(Translation: Coinage of the United Provinces of the Netherlands issued in accordance with the law)
Edge
Mint
Mintage 1673 - -
1675 - -
1676 - -
1678 - -
Numisquare ID 1364983410
Additional information

Historical Context: The Ducat from Overijssel (1673-1678) was struck during the tumultuous Franco-Dutch War, following the "Rampjaar" of 1672. This era saw the Dutch Republic, under Stadtholder William III of Orange, defending itself against multiple invaders. Overijssel, a frontier province, faced direct threats. Issuing stable gold coinage like this ducat was vital for war financing, international trade, and maintaining economic stability amidst severe political and military pressures.

Artistry: This ducat exemplifies the Dutch Baroque numismatic style, prioritizing clear heraldry and inscriptions. The obverse consistently features the iconic standing knight, facing right, holding a sword and a bundle of seven arrows, symbolizing the united provinces. The reverse displays an ornate square tablet with the Latin inscription "MO. AUR. PRO. CONFOED. BELG. TRANSISAL.," identifying it as a gold coin of the United Provinces, issued by Overijssel.

Technical/Grading: Technically, this gold ducat (3.5 gg, .986 fine) typically shows a strong strike, consistent with Dutch minting standards for international trade. High-points for grading include the knight's head, sword hilt, arrow fletching, and raised lettering. While planchet quality is generally high, minor flan irregularities or slight off-center strikes can occur. The crispness of the lettering and the definition of the knight's armor are key indicators of strike quality, with earlier strikes exhibiting superior detail.

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