Lot 652
German States -- Prussia. Taler or Piastre (1751). Dav-2591; v.Schr-1651; Old-368. Cleve mint. Friedrich II, The Great, 1740-1786. Bust right. Reverse: Crowned eagle above supported arms with motto on band below. Issued for the Royal Prussian Asiatic Society. Very rare. A fabulous specimen of elegant engraving, sharply struck on a superior flan of excellent metal, with old-time elegant iridescent gray toning. NGC graded MS-64.
Friedrich was as good a diplomat as he was a soldier. He ended up doubling the size of his territories. The acquisiion of Silesia and East Prussia made his kingdom one of the greatest in Europe. His diplomatic skills enabled him to play Russia against the Habsburgs and assure European approval of his new territories. This marvelous "Piastre" of his captures the spirit of his realm perfectly.
Estimated Value $5,000 - 6,000.
Ex Irving Goodman Collection.
|
| |
| Realized $11,500 |
