$2,784.00 USD
The 1724 Netherlands Gold Ducat, recovered from the legendary wreck of the Akerendam, is a gleaming artifact from the golden age of the Dutch Republic. Graded NGC MS63, this coin not only represents the precision and craftsmanship of 18th-century Dutch minting but also carries the mystique of maritime adventure and peril.
On the obverse, a finely detailed knight in full armor stands proudly, a sword in one hand and a bundle of arrows in the other—symbols of defense and unity. This iconic design encapsulates the strength and independence of the Seven United Provinces. Surrounding the knight is the inscription “MO ORDIN FO BELG PRO”, an abbreviation of Moneta Ordinum Foederati Belgii Provinciarum, translating to “Coin of the Federated Provinces of the Netherlands.” The coin’s remarkable state of preservation is evident in the sharpness of the engraving, with minimal signs of wear and a vibrant golden sheen befitting its MS63 grade.
The reverse design is equally captivating, featuring a Latin cross dividing the date 1724, surrounded by the timeless motto “CONCORDIA RES PARVAE CRESCUNT”—“Through Unity, Small Things Grow.” This phrase, a guiding principle of the Dutch Republic, reflects the cooperative spirit that enabled the Netherlands to flourish as a global power during the 17th and 18th centuries. The reverse fields are lustrous and clean, showcasing the precision of the engraver’s work and the coin’s exceptional preservation despite its incredible journey through history.
The story of the Akerendam adds unparalleled intrigue to this ducat. Launched by the Dutch East India Company (VOC) in January 1725, the Akerendam was bound for the East Indies, laden with gold and silver to finance trade in exotic goods. Tragically, the ship met its fate just two months into its maiden voyage, wrecked in a fierce storm off the coast of Norway near the island of Runde. For centuries, the treasure lay hidden beneath the icy waters, until its discovery in 1972. Among the hoard were coins like this ducat, perfectly preserved by their underwater resting place.
Graded NGC MS63, this gold ducat stands out for its superior condition, with sharp details, minimal marks, and a luster that belies its time beneath the sea. It is a testament to the resilience of gold and the expertise of the Dutch mints that produced these coins, designed to withstand the rigors of global trade.
Owning this 1724 Netherlands Gold Ducat Akerendam is like holding a fragment of history—a coin that once symbolized the ambitions of the Dutch Republic and now embodies the romance of shipwrecked treasure. It is not merely a numismatic masterpiece but a tangible link to an age of exploration, trade, and the indomitable human spirit that braved the oceans in pursuit of prosperity.
