German States: Bavaria. Chaise d'or, Undated. Fr-176. 4.48 grams. 29.25 mm. Ludwig IV, 1314-1347, Duke,Wittelsbach, 1314-1327; Holy Roman Emperor, 1328-1347. Obv. Stylized ruler sitting in Gothic chair, sword in right hand, shield under left hand with double eagle shield. Leg: + LUDOVI CUS*DEI* - *GRA*ROMANORUM*IMP. Reverse: Floriate cross in quadrilobe. +XPC:VINCIT:XPC:RENAT:XPC:IMPERAT. Considerable amount of mint luster. The only one graded at PCGS. PCGS graded MS-62. Estimated Value $1,500 - 1,800
Bavaria was given to the Wittelsbach family by emperor Friedrich I in 1180. Family feuds kept it disorganized until the early 16th century. Ludwig IV was the first to issue gold coins for the duchy. He was also Holy Roman Emperor, so that title is found on the coin. This is a true late medieval striking known as a Chaise d'or (chair of gold), because the ruler is seated on a throne.