Lot 480
Austria. 2 Talers, 1604 (Hall). Dav-3004; KM-611.2; 57.2 grams. Rudoph II, 1576-1612. Obverse error in legend: RVDOLPHVS II : DG. Laureate bust right. Reverse: Crowned arms in Order chain. Considerable luster, well struck and nicely toned, with a fabulous portrait. Rare. NGC graded MS-63.
The eldest son of Emperor Maximilian II and the Infanta Maria of Spain, Rudolph became king of Hungary (1572-1608) and Bohemia (1575-1611) before assuming the robes of Holy Roman Emperor in 1576. He was an eccentric and learned man. His ability to rule was plagued by bouts of melancholy, and by occasional fits of insanity. Absorbed in culture, and surrounded by genius and talent, he sometimes forgot his principal reason for being, which was defense of the nation. His art collection later became a strategic target for the Swedish army during the Thirty Years War, caused in part by religious riots and revolts during his stewardship of Austria.
Estimated Value $2,000 - 2,500.
Ex Irving Goodman Collection.
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| Realized $3,105 |
