NGC-Certified Rarities from Thirty Years War Excel at Auction

An Austrian coin that is nearly 400 years old was among the rarities certified by Numismatic Guaranty Corporation® (NGC®) that were sold by German auction house Fritz Rudolf Künker GmbH & Co. on March 20, 2020.

The 1629 5 Ducat bears the image of Holy Roman Emperor Ferdinand II, who ruled during the first part of the Thirty Years War, one of humanity's most devastating conflicts. Graded NGC MS 61, the coin raced past its starting price of 8,000 euros to realize 38,000 euros (about $41,000 USD).

Austria 1629 5 Ducat graded NGC MS 61. Realized: 38,000 euros Click image to enlarge.

Meanwhile, a 1636 Austria Ducat with the likeness of Holy Roman Emperor Ferdinand III (who succeeded his father, Ferdinand II) also had an impressive result. Graded NGC MS 66, it far exceeded its starting price of 4,000 euros and realized 22,000 euros (about $24,000 USD).

Other significant results from NGC-certified rarities in the Künker sale included:

• a 1689 Germany 4 Ducat graded NGC MS 61 that realized 26,000 euros (about $28,000 USD)
• an undated Germany gold Lubeck Justice and Peace medal graded NGC MS 61 that realized 13,000 euros (about $14,000 USD)
• a Germany 1914 Frederick II (Duke of Anhalt) 5 Mark graded NGC PF 61 that realized 11,000 euros (about $12,000 USD).

Despite the challenges and uncertainty associated with the ongoing global health crisis, the numismatic markets remain open online, and they are showing remarkable strength. NGC-certified coins, which are backed by the comprehensive NGC Guarantee of authenticity and grade, give bidders greater confidence whether they are buying in-person or online.

Many of the leading auctions from around that world can be found in one place at Sixbid.com. NGC is the Official Grading Service of Sixbid.com.