1526 Salzburg Ducat PCGS MS62

The 1526 Salzburg ducat originates from the Archbishopric of Salzburg, an ecclesiastical principality in the Holy Roman Empire ruled by Prince-Archbishop Matthäus Lang von Wellenburg (1519–1540). Struck in 1526 during a turbulent era (just after the Protestant Reformation began), this gold coin reflects the political and religious significance of Salzburg's leadership.

Obverse: The Archbishop's coat of arms under a cardinal's hat (galero), with the date split around the shield (15 - 26). The Latin legend typically reads "MATHEVS CARD AREPS SALZ" (Matthew Cardinal Archbishop of Salzburg), signifying Archbishop Matthäus Lang's authority both as a secular ruler and a Cardinal of the Church.

Reverse: Saint Rupert (St. Ruprecht), patron saint of Salzburg, standing and holding a bishop's crozier and a salt barrel (symbolizing the famous Salzburg salt mines). A small Salzburg coat of arms appears at Saint Rupert's feet. The legend "S RVD BERTVS EPVS" abbreviates Sanctus Rudbertus Episcopus (Saint Rupert, Bishop).

Unique features that enhance the coin's desirability include:

• Its distinct iconography (the juxtaposition of a Prince-Archbishop's regalia with a saint)
• Connection to a significant historical figure (Matthäus Lang was a notable statesman)
• The cardinal's hat and Saint Rupert's salt barrel directly tie into Salzburg's religious heritage and economic foundation
• Nearly five-century-old date combined with religious symbolism and limited survival

The population rarity is exceptional:

·         According to PCGS population data, there are likely only 1-3 coins in Mint State for the 1526 date, with MS62 being the highest or tied for highest grade at PCGS

·         It's quite possible this coin is the only MS62 that PCGS has graded for the type, with none graded finer (no MS63 or higher in the PCGS census for 1526)

·         NGC has graded very few of these Salzburg ducats in Mint State, with perhaps one or two coins in the MS60-62 range for the entire 1519-1537 run

·         Numista's rarity index for this coin type is 94 out of 100, indicating it is among the most rare coins in collectors' hands

In practical terms, finding any 1520s Salzburg ducat in Mint State is extraordinarily difficult – populations are in the low single digits. Most surviving specimens are in fine to extremely fine condition at best.

3.43g, KM-75