As our Stack’s Bowers Galleries November Official Auction of the Whitman Coin & Collectibles Expo edges ever closer, we continue to preview highlights from the sale. Today’s coin is a 2 Taler from the Albertine Line from the state of Saxony in Germany. Housed in an extra large NGC holder, this piece is truly impressive. It is a classic Vicariat issue that commemorates the death of Emperor Ferdinand III. Issued by Johann Georg II (1656-1680) – an adept statesman who successfully maneuvered his state so that Austria and France competed for influence – this hefty Taler displays an intricate design and is artistically executed. The obverse design features a magnificent figure of the Duke-Elector in a lavish robe and drawn sword atop a horse facing right. The arms for the region appear just below the horse in a cartouche oval. The legend states “Deo et Patriae” (For God and Fatherland) and the date of 1657. The reverse features a 12-line Latin inscription that records Emperor Ferdinand III’s death, and lists the full titles of the Vicar-Duke-Elector. An acorn appears at the very end of the legend, serving as the mintmark. As a large coin, this issue is typically seen with considerable doubling or planchet defects, however the example offered here is well preserved with clear legends and devices, and flawless edges. Light iridescent toning adds life and personality to the piece. This piece is graded by NGC at AU-58 and is one of many fantastic numismatic treasures featured in our November Baltimore Auction. Be sure to browse our catalog or visit our website for more exceptional coins!
Look for this and other world numismatic rarities in our upcoming November Baltimore Auction. For details please refer to the Events Calendar link at www.StacksBowers.com. Though our Stack’s Bowers November Baltimore Auction is no longer open for further consignments, we are now accepting consignments of world and ancient coins for our January New York International Auction as well as Chinese and other Asian coins and currency for our April 2016 Hong Kong Showcase Auction. If you are interested in consigning your coins and paper currency (whether a whole collection or a single rarity) be sure to contact one of our consignment directors.
