Catalog
1/2 Ducat - Aureus Magnus Tokyo Olympics
| Issuer | Germany, Federal Republic of |
|---|---|
| Year | 1964 |
| Type | Fantasy coin |
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| Reverse description | A six-armed decorative cross occupies the center of the reverse, with stylized lily or maple-leaf motifs filling each of the six angles between the arms. A central roundel bears the denomination inscription 'S DUCAT'. The peripheral legend 'PRO PROSPERITATE MUNDI' curves along the upper portion of the rim, while 'AUREUS MAGNUS' curves along the lower portion, separated by small star ornaments. The fineness mark '980' appears in the lower central field beneath the cross. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
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| Additional information |
The "Aureus Magnus" series was produced by a private German mint, not the federal government — these pieces occupy an awkward category in numismatics, sold as commemorative medallic issues timed to the Tokyo Games but carrying no legal tender status in West Germany. The 1964 Tokyo Olympics marked Japan's formal re-entry into the international community, the first Games held in Asia, arriving just nineteen years after Hiroshima.
At .980 fine, the gold content slightly exceeds standard ducat fineness of .986 — close enough to invoke the denomination by tradition, not by law.