Netherlands, West Friesland Dukaat 1666

ORTHERN NETHERLANDS – REPUBLIC (1581–1795) West Friesland – Silver ducat 1666 Very rare date – Extraordinary state of preservation A splendid West Frisian silver ducat from 1666, a very rare date that is offered only sporadically, certainly in such a state of preservation. A particularly appealing seventeenth-century issue with a powerfully depicted armored knight and a beautifully detailed Generality coat of arms. Obverse: A armored knight, standing to the right, with a raised sword in his right hand. In front of him the provincial coat of arms of West Friesland, flanked by the year 16 – 66. Legend: MO : NO : ARG : PRO : CONFOE : BELG : WESTF Translation: New silver coin of West Friesland, belonging to the United Dutch Provinces. Reverse: The crowned Generality coat of arms of the United Netherlands, with the Dutch lion, sword and arrows bundle. Legend: CONCORDIA · RES · PARVÆ · CRESCVNT ✶ Translation: Through unity small things grow. Historically known as: Unity makes strength. Historical background and rarity The silver ducat belonged to the principal trade coins of the Dutch Republic and found its way into international trade thanks to its recognizable imagery and reliable silver content. The year 1666 falls in the middle of the Second Anglo-Dutch War (1665–1667), in which the Republic defended its trading interests and maritime position against England. The armored knight embodies the independence and resilience of the United Netherlands, while the Generality arms and the Latin motto emphasize the unity between the provinces. The West Friesland issue of 1666 belongs to the very rare dates within this series. Specimens are offered only sporadically, with such conservation being even more exceptional. The piece offered stands out for its attractive silver-gray patina, strong details and magnificent presentation. The combination of the very rare date and the remarkable preservation state makes this a particularly collectible specimen for the specialized collector of Dutch provincial coins. An exceptional West Friesland silver ducat from 1666. Not only a very rare date, but above all the combination with this splendid state of preservation makes this specimen an extraordinary acquisition for the specialized collector of Dutch provincial coins.

Estimate:£669.11

View all items fromCatawikiorCoins & Banknotes