Ferdinand II gold 5 Ducat 1628 MS61 NGC, Breslau mint, cf. KM660 (listed as Vienna mint), Fr-153, Horsky-Unl., Köhler-65, MzA-125, Saurma-Jeltsch-Unl., F&S-221. 17.22gm. Johann Ziesler as mintmaster. A decidedly attractive example of this notably challenging type, conditionally scarce in this level of preservation. The popularity of this issue never ceases to wane among collectors, and this offering, presently one of only two examples certified, retains a commanding visual allure, even with evidence of light handling that aligns with the grade. Closer inspection reveals hardly a mark of any serious consequence over the fields, while intensive luster lends a gratifying freshness to the whole of the piece. For the sake of completeness, we note a small planchet flaw on the reverse, between the V and S in AVS, though this is of little visual consequence and should not be mistaken for a test cut. Interestingly, the Standard Catalog of World Coins has placed this emission under the Vienna mint, though the end of the obverse legend clearly carries the abbreviation DV S for Dux Silesiae, a title omitted from his crown-mint coins, which end BO REX (for Borussiae Rex, "King of Prussia"). For his part, Köhler, in his Vollständiges Ducaten-Cabinet, even remarks that the placement of the title between the archducal and royal titles is peculiar. For reference, we sold a similar example in the same grade in our January 2020 NYINC sale, which realized $50,400. Ex. Hess-Divo Auction 295 (May 2003, Lot 74)

HID09801242017

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