Extremely rare triple ducat of the Duchy of Legnica-Brzeg, John Christian, 1622.
A variety with a plain decorative shield, classified as exceptionally rare.
John Christian, Duke of Legnica, Brzeg and Oława of the Piast dynasty, was one of the last representatives of this line. His gold issues, especially multi-ducat pieces, are of great rarity – struck in very limited numbers and intended mainly for representative purposes. The mint in Oława was managed at that time by Hans Rieger, whose initials HR appear on the duke’s coinage.
The clipping at the edge (NGC CLIPPED) does not affect the design. Excellent detail, with the background preserving a strong original mint lustre. A coin of remarkable eye appeal.
A specimen from these very dies is preserved in the collection of the National Museum in Warsaw.
This variety has not been previously recorded on the auction market. Another variety with an oval shield has been registered only once in global archives – Fritz Rudolf Künker Auction 107, 2 February 2006, lot 1018.
A coin of the highest rarity, an extraordinary opportunity for the most demanding collectors of Silesian gold. The triple ducat of 1622 is a unique testimony of the era, reflecting the splendour and prestige of the Silesian Piasts at the twilight of their rule.
Obverse: bust of Duke John Christian facing right, in ornate armour with lace collar, date 16ZZ below
D G IOHANES CHRISTIANUS DUX
Reverse: quartered coat of arms of the Duchy of Legnica-Brzeg, adorned with rich crested helmets
SIL LIGN ET BREG
Gold, diameter 30 mm, weight 8.35 g
