AUSTRIA. 4 Ducat, 1522. Cardinal Matthaus Lang Von Wellenburg (1519-1540). NGC AU-50.

Fr-591. 14.09 grams. Obverse: Bust left in robes and berretta, "MATHEVS. CARDI. ARCHIEPS. SALZBVRGN." around; Reverse: Quartered arms under Cardinal's hat and knots, "SANCTVS. RVDBERTVS. EPVS. SALZBVRGN" around. Here is one of the triumphs of Renaissance coin portraiture, and one of the earliest examples of that historic era's art created in this influential area of Austria. This fascinating high-relief gold coin was issued by an energetic and forceful prelate whose reign coincided with much religious upheaval, culminating in outright war in which the Protestant interests were ultimately defeated. Its condition can only be stated as really superlative, showing bright surfaces and few marks, its pleasing and uncluttered design left undeterred for the viewer to admire.