Bavaria (1685) 5 ducats Fr-215
This specimen was lot 32163 in Heritage sale 3081 (New York, January 2020), where it sold for $50,400. The catalog description[1] noted, "German States: Sublime Baroque 5 Ducat. Bavaria. Maximilian II Emanuel gold 5 Ducat ND (1685) MS61 NGC, Munich mint. Presenting the near-peak of Baroque artistry and styling, this magnificent multiple ducat features the striking dual portraits of the Elector Maximilian II and Maria Antonia, Archduchess of Austria. The issue was presented to the Bavarian Estates on Maximilian and Maria Antonia's marriage, displaying an attention to detail and quality that truly seems fit for royalty, the sharp engraving extending to the smallest details within the armor and hair, as well as the intricate shields held on the reverse center by a winged angel above. The preservation remains excellent, deep golden luster embellishing the well-engraved devices at every turn, any handling quite limited and confined to only the small spaces present within the expansive and eye-catching devices. Truly excellent and deserving of the closest bidder attention." This is one of two quintuple ducats minted for the occasion; the other shows the facing busts of the couple (Fr-214).
Recorded mintage: unknown.
Specification: 17.35 g, gold, 35 mm diameter, this specimen 17.3 g.
Catalog reference: KM 342, Fr-215, Hauser-51.
- Friedberg, Arthur L. and Ira S. Friedberg, Gold Coins of the World, From Ancient Times to the Present, 9th ed., Clifton, NJ: Coin and Currency Institute, 2017.
- Cuhaj, George S., and Thomas Michael, Standard Catalog of World Coins, 1601-1700, 6th ed., Iola, WI: Krause Publications, 2014.
- [1]Bierrenbach, Cristiano, Warren Tucker and Sam Spiegel, Heritage World and Ancient Coins Auction 3081, featuring the Caranett Collection, Dallas, TX: Heritage Auction Galleries, 2019.
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