$38,813.00 USD
The 1657 Brunswick-Luneburg-Calenberg Gold 2 Ducats, NGC MS62, is a spectacular and historically rich double ducat struck under Duke Johann Georg II, one of the most prominent German Protestant rulers of the mid-17th century. Minted during the height of the post-Westphalian stabilization period, this piece was likely produced at the Zellerfeld Mint, renowned for its ceremonial and presentation gold issues for the House of Welf.
Obverse: Depicts Duke Johann Georg II in full armor on horseback, sword raised in military posture, riding right within a circular legend. To the left of the horseman is the date 1657 and the legend “PATRIAE” (for the fatherland), and to the right “DEO ET” (for God), invoking a dual loyalty to nation and faith. Below the horse’s hooves is a detailed shield of arms.
Reverse: Features an extraordinary full-field Latin inscription across 15 lines detailing Johann Georg II’s extensive titles: “D.G. IOH. GEORG. III DUX SAX. IUL. CL. & MONT. S.R.I. PR. ARCHIM. ELECT. ATQ. PO. TEX. CESS. DIM. FERD. IIII AVG VIC. CAROL. LANDG. THUR. MAR. MIS. ETC.”
This inscription asserts his positions as Duke of Saxony, Jülich, Cleves, and Montfort; Archmarshal and Elector of the Holy Roman Empire; and governor or titular ruler of numerous additional territories.
Graded NGC MS62, this example is struck in high-purity (.986 fine) gold and weighs approximately 6.98 grams, conforming to the double ducat standard. The coin displays exceptional detail with fully legible script and an unusually sharp strike for the period, particularly on the horse and armorial shield. The MS62 grade places it at the high end of known examples, with brilliant fields and only minor handling marks consistent with its ceremonial nature.
