Salzburg. Johann Ernst gold 12 Ducat 1687 UNC Details (Rim Damage) NGC, KM264 (Rare), Fr-822, Probszt-1746, Numitor Collection-Unl., Zöttl-2094. 41.81gm. Struck in an impressive weight of 12 ducats, this significant rarity warrants in-hand review, so as to fully appreciate its sharp detail and beautifully intricate designs. The multiple ducats of 1687 saw production in a varied range of weights and sizes. The Type 1 issues, as classified by Zöttl, are the broadest of these, and the current offering is represented in that category. The expansive flan serves as a remarkable canvas for the detailed designs, which remain undiminished in clarity and character by either time or handling. Featuring the facing Saints Rupert and Vigilius to the obverse, this type was produced under the authority of Johann Ernst von Thun und Hohenstein, Prince-Archbishop of Salzburg from 1687. The specimen demonstrates a conditional preservation that is nothing less than fully uncirculated, with sharp and scintillating mint luster expressed throughout the fields upon rotation. Only a single edge knock near 10 o'clock is visible in the current holder placement, with a single mark crossing from about 4 o'clock to the center of the flan. Across the entire series, this specimen represents one of the very largest that we have seen in terms of denomination and weight. This further points to the extreme difficulty of locating other, similarly heavy, gold emissions of the period. Owing to both its laudable quality and exceptional presentation, we have no doubt that the offering will be met with fervent collector enthusiasm.

HID09801242017

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