Netherlands
Holland. Provincial gold Proof Pattern Ducaton (10 Ducat or Gold Rider) 1687 PR61 NGC, KM-Pn19, Fr-Unl., Delm-788 (R1), CNM-2.28.84, PW-Ho45.6. 34.49gm. A tremendous representative of this off-metal issue, noted as a "trial in gold" by Delmonte and similarly recognized as a Pattern by the Standard Catalog of World Coins. As specialists will be well aware, these issues were produced by the same dies used to strike the "regular" (and conditionally still very scarce) Ducatons of the same period (cf. KM51). Gold emissions are highly elusive, particularly in finer surviving states, and likely served as presentation pieces to important officials, thus indicating that their value and importance was well-recognized by owners in even contemporary times.
The exacting strike and bold details of this piece leave no doubt as to its special production. Razor-sharp throughout, the designs soar above the fields, clearly contoured at every point of inspection and lending a fitting vibrancy to the engaging motifs, featuring an armored knight on horseback charging into battle. The near-perfect centering of the strike has produced an even rim that serves as a visual frame for the central features, a bright display of golden light and a delightful red-gold tone held within its confines. Though some heavier handling is to be expected at this grade, disturbances to the surfaces are evenly distributed and minor, yielding a strong visual display that might normally be expected at higher levels of certification. Truly marvelous, and existing at a superb intersection between rich artistry and indisputable rarity, this offering appears fully destined for a high-end collection of 17th-century gold.
https://coins.ha.com/itm/netherlands/netherlands-holland-provincial-gold-proof-pattern-ducaton-10-ducat-or-gold-rider-1687-pr61-ngc-/a/3096-30420.s?type=CoinArchives3096
HID02906262019
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Estimate: 60000-80000 USD