Bavaria. Maximilian I gold 5 Ducat 1640 MS63 NGC, Munich mint, KM268, Fr-196, Wittelsbach-807, Hahn-Unl. 17.35gm. Variety with date above. Commemorating the completion of new fortifications around Munich. Obv. Maximilian standing slightly right, fully clad in armor, holding scepter and resting hand upon orb set upon altar to right; all within ornate hallway. Rev. Veduta of Munich within the fortifications; above, the Madonna seated facing among the clouds, holding Holy Infant and scepter; cherub to left and right. A fetching commemorative issue capturing ornate designs in their full majesty across an expansive planchet measuring nearly 40mm in diameter. The vivid imagery, featuring Maximilian in full armor to the obverse and a sweeping view of Munich and its new fortifications to the reverse, combines the best of Early Modern portraiture with the popular "city view" motif, here arguably seen in a greater detail and splendor than most type of the era, while enhanced by the opulent presentation of its golden format. Scintillating luster graces the fields amidst a needle-sharp strike, which leaves even the background arches notably more crisp than other examples that we have seen, while clear die polish lines confirm the uncirculated status of this choice offering.

HID09801242017

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