Saxony. Johann Georg II "Vicariat" 4 Taler 1657-(acorn) AU53 NGC, Dresden mint, KM462 (Rare), Dav-LS396, Merseburger-Unl., Dassdorf-Unl., Schnee-895. 116.15gm. Constantin Rothe as mintmaster. With value stamp "4" on reverse. The heaviest recorded weight for this instantly recognizable multiple Taler issue, and one of a correspondingly immense rarity within the series. Missing from such famous collections as Vogel, Wilmersdörffer, Köhler, Merseburger, Milas, and, most recently, our sale of Paramount, auction records from the last several decades record fewer than 10 total examples having come to market. Succeeding his father, Johann Georg I, as Elector of Saxony upon his father's death in 1656, Johann Georg II was further raised to the position of Imperial Vicar upon the death of Holy Roman Emperor Ferdinand III in 1657. Fully capturing the esteem with which Johann Georg held this temporary office, the coin at hand captures every detail of the Saxon magnate in full Electoral apparel--from the cap, mantle, and sword that he wears to the arms of the Albertine House below his rearing horse. Though awarded a straight grade by NGC, we would note that the coin shows extensive evidence of harsh cleaning over both sides. As such, a more attainable representative of this denomination that seldom comes within reach.

HID09801242017

© 2020 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved

To the auctioneer's website