Our next preview for the January 2018 New York International Auction is a
magnificent and scarcely seen coronation medal. The earliest coronations (beginning
in 800 with Charlemagne) of the Holy Roman Emperors took place in Rome, and
were presided over by the Pope. By the time of Charles VI, the ceremony took
place in Germany with no direct involvement by the Papacy. Frankfurt Cathedral
hosted the event, with the Electors of the empire meeting and proclaiming the
new emperor in a separate ceremony, usually just days before the coronation
would take place.
This medal prominently displays the bust of Charles VI wearing a laurel
crown facing right, with the engraver’s initials: “DSD” on base of shoulder.
The legend appears as: “CAROLVS VI D. G. ROM. IMP. SEMP AVG.” which in English
translates to “Charles VI, by the grace of God, Roman Emperor and Forever
Augustus.” The reverse depicts the Empress Elisabeth Christine of Brunswick
facing right, engraver’s initials: “V” below bust. Titles around: “ELISABETHA
CHRIST: ROMAN: AVGVSTA & C.” which translates to “Elisabeth Christine,
Roman Empress”. This boldly struck piece features high relief portraits and
glowing luster. It will be a treasured piece in the next collection it enters.
We are currently taking consignments of world and ancient coins as well as
world paper money for our January 2018 New York International Auction. We are
also accepting consignments of Chinese and other Asian coins and currency for
our April 2018 Hong Kong Showcase Auction. Time is running short, so 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.
