1914 German Ludwig II Gold 20 Mark NGC PF65 Cameo

This extraordinary gold 20 Mark proof was minted in 1914 to honor King Ludwig II of Bavaria, decades after his mysterious death in 1886. Revered as the "Fairy Tale King," Ludwig II remains a romantic figure in European history, celebrated for his patronage of the arts and the construction of castles like Neuschwanstein. Although he had died long before the date on the coin, his enduring mystique and Bavarian nationalism inspired this unofficial tribute issue, reportedly never officially released for circulation.

Obverse: Features a deeply frosted bust of Ludwig II facing left, exhibiting a lifelike profile with majestic detail. The surrounding inscription reads: LUDWIG II KOENIG V. BAYERN, affirming his royal title.

Reverse: Depicts the German imperial eagle with scepter and orb, surmounted by a large crown. The legend DEUTSCHES REICH 1914 arches above, with the denomination 20 MARK below.

Graded NGC PF65 Cameo, this coin boasts deep watery fields with exceptional cameo contrast, making the raised devices appear to float above the mirrored backdrop.

 As one of the finest known examples, it is a spectacular presentation piece and among the most elusive German proof gold issues. Its proof status, coupled with its unofficial and highly limited nature, cements it as an exceedingly rare and enigmatic trophy for collectors of Imperial Germany and Bavarian royalty.