Salzburg. Franz Anton gold 10 Ducat 1709 MS62+ NGC, KM302 (Rare; this coin), Fr-840 (Rare), Probszt-1946, Numitor Collection-Unl., Zöttl-2335. 34.75gm. The only certified representative of this elusive denomination, and a coin which seems to earn its nearly choice designation on the grounds of its glassy luster alone. Stated by Probszt to have been a "gift piece" (Geschenkstück) for Franz Anton's election as Archbishop, it is undoubtedly clear to see why this medium was chosen to produce treasured talismans for the event--the strike, crisp and carefully prepared, leaves nothing to the imagination; the heavenly figures of Saints Rupert and Virgilius (Franz Anton's forefathers in nurturing the Austrian flock) are expressed in the most loving detail, with faint die polish lines along their silhouettes heightening their otherworldly aura. Perhaps one of the few "un-original" features on this selection is the presence of red wax on the obverse (reverse as holdered), likely suggesting its plating as part of an old collection. Although we cannot speculate on how many pieces survived, we have not been able to find any other specimens in auction records.

HID09801242017

© 2020 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved

To the auctioneer's website