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| From-To | Rarity* | Material | Diameter | Weight | | 1,2903225806452 | | - | - | | Description |
(ITALY. Sicily. Messina. Augustalis, After 1231. Frederick II (1198-1250). PCGS AU-50 Secure Holder. Fr-134; MIR-59; Spahr-98/102. With obverse legend annulet stops. King Frederick II, head of the House of Hohenstaufen, was without question one of the most powerful rulers of the middle ages. His influence was felt from Germany to the north to as far away as Jerusalem, as he sponsored several of the 13th century crusades. His impact on Italian culture can not be overstated, the codification of the Italian language can in large measure be credited to him. Here then, is a magnificent connection to this larger than life ruler, who would have such a lasting effect on Europe that contemporaries declared him stupor mundi "the astonishment of the world". Struck in nearly pure gold, the denomination was in part a reflection of Frederick II's exposure to Byzantine Imperial coinage. Of similar weight and fineness, but with an altogether different design, the magnificent piece offered here exemplifies Frederick II's self perception of being heir to the Roman Empire. The iconographic design reaching back to Roman times is unmistakable, and it is yet another quality of the coin which enhances its desirability. Struck on a high quality flan, which, aside from a small reverse lamination behind the eagle's head, exhibits no flaws, cracks or other impairments. A fully expressive portrait, clear legends, and reverse eagle with fully delineated wing feathers, leave little doubt as to what this coin looked like when first minted. What little wear the coin has experienced, would appear to be confined to the shoulder of the portrait. A bright and luminescent piece, the overall first impression it leaves is nothing short of breathtaking. An opportunity to acquire the type, particularly in this magnificent condition, is a rare opportunity indeed. Close inspection is sure to fire the imagination; a coin you won't want to let slip away. PCGS AU-50 Secure Holder. Estimate: $7000.00- $10000.00) |
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