Denmark 1648 1/6 speciedaler
This specimen was lot 23091 in Stack's Bowers NYINC sale (New York, January 2023), where it sold for $780. The catalog description[1] noted,
"DENMARK. Largesse 1/6 Specie Daler Klippe, 1648. Frederik III. PCGS AU-58. Obverse: Laureate bust of Frederik III right, legend around, date below; Reverse: Incense burner, legend around. The beautifully preserved example is vastly superior than normally encountered from this series and as such should be considered RARE in this state of preservation. The surfaces are smooth displaying lovely dove gray patina with iridescent hues that pop out when tilted in the light adding to its pleasing appearance. Wholly original looking this handsome survivor offers good eye appeal and is sure to catch the attention of quality conscious collectors.
Similar in nature to British Maundy coinage, Largesse issues were given out during coronations and royal funerals. After the death of his father, Christian IV, the opportunity to be elected heir apparent to the Danish throne became apparent to Frederik III. It wasn't until the death of his older brother Christian in June 1647 that the issue was settled. After much deliberation between the Danish Estates and the Rigsraadet (Royal Council) he was finally accepted as successor to the throne. The coronation of Frederik III took place 23 November 1648, but was forced to sign the Haandfaestning charter limiting the royal prerogative in favor of the Rigsraadet."
While flinging largesse to the crowd was a common practice of many monarchs, only in Scandinavia were special coins struck for the purpose. This one was issued on the death of Christian IV and the accession of Frederik III. It was accompanied by one-twelfth and one quarter speciedaler in silver and half, one and double ducats in gold. All are scarce.
Recorded mintage: unknown.
Specification: 0.881 fine silver. This specimen is 4.76 g, 22 mm x 22 mm.
Catalog reference: KM-160; Sieg-66; H-48.
- Cuhaj, George S., and Thomas Michael, Standard Catalog of World Coins, 1601-1700, 6th ed., Iola, WI: Krause Publications, 2014.
- Siegs Møntcatalog 2016: Danmark med Omrader, 48 ed., Frederikssund, Siegs Forlag ApS, 2015.* Davenport, John S., European Crowns, 1700-1800, 2nd Ed., London: Spink & Son, 1964.
- [1]Orsini, Matt, Kyle Ponterio and Jeremy Bostwick, The January 2023 NYINC Auction: Ancient Coins, World Coins & Paper Money, featuring the Taraszka Collection and the Mark and Dottie Salton Collection, Costa Mesa, CA: Stack's Bowers LLC, 2022.
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