German States: Trier. Karl Kaspar gold 6 Ducat 1659-ICB AU58 NGC,...

Description

Elegant and Reportedly Unique Trier 6 Ducat

Trier. Karl Kaspar gold 6 Ducat 1659-ICB AU58 NGC, Koblenz mint, KM-A114 (Unique), Fr-3464 (Unique), von Schluthess-Rechberg Collection-Unl., Reimmann-Unl., Bohl-Unl., Schneemann, "Die Klostermünzen im Sprengel der trierischen Erzdiöcese" (Jahresbericht der Gesellschaft für nützliche Forschungen zu Trier 1858), pg. 47, 207 ("size of a Double Taler," likely this coin). 20.82gm. Johann Christoph Buchsmeyer as mintmaster. Struck from 2 Taler dies (cf. KM113; Rare). CAROL • CASPAR • D • G • ARCHI • EP : TRVIER • PRINC : ELECT • ADM : PRVM, bust of Archbishop-Elector Karl Kaspar von der Leyen facing three-quarters right, in inner circle / CONSTANTER • ET • SINCERE • ANNO • 1659 • I • C • B, arms topped by elector's hat in inner circle, Listed in both Friedberg and the Standard Catalog of World Coins as unique. Indeed, we have not been able to find another specimen in our research of past auction catalogs or references. Additionally, neither Weege nor the Deutsches Münzpreis- Jahrbuch report any sales records, suggesting that its inclusion in the aforementioned standard publications (where it is nonetheless unillustrated) may be due to a fairly recent surfacing within the market, prior to its acquisition in the Paramount Collection.

Interestingly, Klaus Lauter's slim volume, Über 2000 Jahre Münzen im Trierer Land, published in 1967, includes a line drawing of a large, taler-sized coin dated 1666 (Plate XVI, 90). In its corresponding description, it alludes to a 10 Ducat striking with a weight of 34.5gm. It is curious to wonder if this may be a misreporting of the present coin, as our research shows no such coin is known, nor did Madai or von Schluthess-Rechberg record a taler of this date in their cabinets. Perhaps even more telling is the publication of a gold coin that matches the layout of this coin perfectly in the Jahresbericht der Gesellschaft für nützliche Forschungen zu Trier in 1858, where it is stated as, "of the size of a Double Taler" (though no weight is given), residing in the "collection of the society" (Sammlung der Gesellschaft), though no illustration is provided.

From a visual perspective, this piece features a compelling and unusual three-quarters angled portrait that bears a remarkable similarity in style to that of Martin Luther used upon the commemorative Taler coinage of Eisleben only two years later. This may indicate that the same engraver was employed for the two issues, or that at least a common thread of inspiration runs between the two. An enigmatic specimen and a fantastic survivor, bearing surfaces utterly exempt from mishandling, with only the slightest hints of friction to the high points.

Ex. The International Sale (Stack's March 1988, Lot 1104); Schweizerischer Bankverein Auction 13 (January 1984, Lot 581)

From the Paramount Collection

Metal: Gold
Diameter: 44.5mm
Weight: 21g
AGW: 0.7344oz

More information about German Coins. See also: German States World Coin Nationality.

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