Stack’s Bowers Galleries is thrilled to bring you our next preview for the January 2019 New York International Numismatic Convention auction. There is still time to consign to this important event, which is sure to attract attention from across the global collector community. Today’s preview features a rare Polish Taler seldom offered here in the United States, with the last domestic listing over a decade ago. King of Poland and Grand Duke of Lithuania, John III Sobieski was a skilled military commander whose reign marked a period of stabilization for the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. He is most famous for his rout of an invading Turkish army in the Battle of Vienna, where John led a cavalry charge to break the Ottoman battle line and end their siege. The Pope hailed John as the "Savior of Vienna, Christendom and Western European Civilization."
The coin offered in our January 2019 sale was produced just after this seminal event and features a right facing crowned, draped and cuirassed bust of the King. The legend translates to: "John III, by the Grace of God, King of Poland, Grand Duke of Lithuania, Ruthenia, Prussia and Masovia." The reverse design displays two elaborate heraldic lions supporting the oval City-Arms. A wreath with palm fronds and floral stalk is above, with the date within a cartouche just below. The legend states: "Silver Coin [of the] City of Danzig." This example is one of only two examples certified by either NGC or PCGS. It is a wholesome and pleasing example with smooth surfaces and only gentle wear on the highest portions of the design. Soft gray tone envelops both sides and adds to the aesthetic appeal of this very rare issue.
We are currently accepting consignments of world and ancient coins and world paper money for our January 2019 New York International Auction as well as the February 2019 Collector’s Choice Online Auction. We are also accepting consignments of Chinese and other Asian coins and currency for our March 2019 Hong Kong Showcase Auction. Time is running short, so if you are interested in consigning your coins and paper currency (whether a whole collection or a single rarity) contact one of our consignment directors.
