Stack's Bowers & Ponterio
January 2023 NYINC Auction 13-16 Jan 2023
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POLAND. Gold Medallic 6 Ducats, ND (1657). John Casimir. PCGS Genuine--Edge Repaired, Unc Details.
H-Cz-2339 (R3); Raczyński-139. Weight: 20.73 gms. Obverse: Laureate and robed bust of John Casimir right; Reverse: A sheaf of wheat set upon the flowered ground, being raised by a hand emerging from the clouds at left; at right, head of Aeolus blowing over the wheat, surrounded by clouds from which hail fails; radiant glory of God above represented by Hebrew inscription of the divines' name. A tremendous medal that offers artful beauty in combination with historical importance given its connection with the Swedish Deluge. In 1655 Sweden invaded the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth in a historical event known as the Deluge. Emerging as one of the most powerful states in Europe after the Thirty Years War, Sweden sought wealth and vengeance from the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. After an initial series of defeats and occupation of Polish territory, which saw John Casimir flee Poland, in 1657 the military situation of the Commonwealth had stabilized, and by 1660 the occupation ended.
H-Cz-2339 (R3); Raczyński-139. Weight: 20.73 gms. Obverse: Laureate and robed bust of John Casimir right; Reverse: A sheaf of wheat set upon the flowered ground, being raised by a hand emerging from the clouds at left; at right, head of Aeolus blowing over the wheat, surrounded by clouds from which hail fails; radiant glory of God above represented by Hebrew inscription of the divines' name. A tremendous medal that offers artful beauty in combination with historical importance given its connection with the Swedish Deluge. In 1655 Sweden invaded the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth in a historical event known as the Deluge. Emerging as one of the most powerful states in Europe after the Thirty Years War, Sweden sought wealth and vengeance from the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. After an initial series of defeats and occupation of Polish territory, which saw John Casimir flee Poland, in 1657 the military situation of the Commonwealth had stabilized, and by 1660 the occupation ended.
This medal was likely produced in 1657 after the military situation had improved, with the reverse suggesting that YHWH was again shining his glory upon the Commonwealth. The engraving is cuttingly sharp, with a clarity that is commendable and well applied by the strike. This example is still rich with glowing luster, despite a slight touch of friction. The edge repair that is noted by PCGS likely refers to a spot at approximately 12 o'clock, though almost all evidence of repair work is hidden by the PCGS encapsulation. A beautiful medal that should spark interest from any specialist in Polish numismatics.
From the Anthony J. Taraszka Collection.
Estimate: $95000 - $150000