$3,810.00 USD
– SOLDThe 1724 Netherlands Gold Ducat is a remarkable treasure with a rich history tied to one of the most famous maritime disasters—the Akerendam Shipwreck. Struck in the early 18th century during the Golden Age of Dutch trade, this coin represents both the Dutch Republic’s naval prowess and the intrigue surrounding sunken treasure.
The 1724 Gold Ducat was minted during the reign of Emperor Charles VI of the Holy Roman Empire, but it was produced in the Netherlands, a nation renowned for its shipping and merchant fleets. The Akerendam, a Dutch East India Company ship, sank in March 1725 off the coast of Norway, en route from the East Indies to the Netherlands. It was carrying a massive load of precious metals, spices, and other valuable cargo, including a significant amount of Dutch coinage. Over time, the wreck became the stuff of legend, and coins recovered from the wreck are highly prized by collectors.
The obverse of the 1724 Netherlands Gold Ducat features a beautifully detailed portrait of Emperor Charles VI, who ruled both the Austrian lands and the Holy Roman Empire. His likeness is surrounded by an inscription that reads “CAROLUS VI D G IMPER AT REX,” which translates to "Charles VI, by the Grace of God, Emperor and King." The crown and regal portrait reflect the prestigious standing of the coin within the European monetary system.
On the reverse, the coin showcases the classic Dutch heraldic shield, flanked by the crowns of the Dutch Republic, with the powerful lion and the noble cross symbolizing the authority of the state. The inscription reads “CONCORDIA RES PARVAE CRESCUNT,” which means "In harmony, small things grow," a motto reflecting the Dutch philosophy of prosperity through unity and trade.
Graded PCGS MS63, this Gold Ducat is in exceptionally fine condition with sharp details, vivid luster, and only minimal signs of wear. Coins recovered from the Akerendam Shipwreck are highly sought after for their historical significance, as they offer a glimpse into both the Dutch trading empire and the perils of the high seas. With only a small number of these coins remaining in fine condition, this MS63 example is a prized piece for collectors of shipwreck treasures, world gold coinage, and maritime history.
Owning the 1724 Netherlands Gold Ducat from the Akerendam Shipwreck is akin to possessing a direct connection to Dutch colonial trade, the Age of Exploration, and the perilous journey of the Dutch East India Company ships. It is a true historical treasure—both a coin and a story of adventure, fortune, and loss on the high seas.
