$168,075.00 USD
The 1701–1800 Gold Medal of 2 Ducats, graded PCGS SP62, is an elite-quality specimen striking from the 18th century, likely issued within the Holy Roman Empire or adjacent German principalities. Struck on a 2-ducat weight gold planchet (~6.98 grams, .986 fine), this medal served a ceremonial or commemorative function rather than circulating as currency. Specimen strikes were reserved for presentation or special occasions and executed with above-normal care using polished dies and planchets.
Obverse: A richly detailed nativity-inspired scene shows the Christ child being attended by Mary and Joseph, with rays of divine light descending from the heavens. A hovering dove — representing the Holy Spirit — completes the Trinitarian symbolism. The human figures kneel and gesture in reverence, invoking protection and healing.
Reverse: Features a six-line German devotional prayer:
O JESU
DER DU SELBST
EIN KLEINES KIND
GEWESEN
LAS UNSRE KINDER
AUCH DURCH DEIN VERDIENST GENESEN
Translation:
O Jesus, you who yourself were a little child, let our children also be healed through your merit.
The reverse is framed below by floral elements and a scallop shell — a traditional Christian symbol of pilgrimage and baptism.
Graded PCGS SP62, this piece is an exceptional survivor in the Specimen category, which denotes a superior strike distinguished from circulation coinage. The SP62 grade confirms full strike detail and reflective surfaces with only minor handling marks or hairlines.
It is uncirculated, possessing the visual qualities of a proof but made in small numbers outside regular mint production. This level of preservation is extremely rare for 18th-century gold medals.
