Gold ducat

Austrian gold ducats as a form of gold coin investment

The famous Austrian coin is also commonly called the 'Cecco Beppe' because the obverse depicts the Emperor of Austria-Hungary Franz Joseph.

The value engraved on the coins is expressed in ducats, a typical currency used since the Middle Ages by merchants and traders, but this is just the nominal value, quite different from the real value of the coin, which is instead based on the gold price at the time of purchase and a possible numismatic value.

The Duchy of Austria is produced in pure gold 986.66/1000, one of the purest coins ever issued until the first half of the 20th century. For this reason, too, it is highly valued and sought after by collectors and investors all over the world.

Austrian Gold Duchies: History of the Imperial Mint

The Austrian mint is one of the oldest in the world. Its foundation in 1194 was due to a ransom paid by the English Crown. While Richard I of England, known as Richard the Lionheart, was returning home from the Crusades, he was kidnapped by Leopold V of Austria, who held him prisoner until the British Crown paid 12 tons of silver for his release. At the time, silver was a metal commonly used for coins, and it seemed obvious to use the ransom to mint some. Consequently, Duke Leopold decided to establish the first mint of the Kingdom in Vienna.

Duchies made their first appearance in 1612 and were initially used for trade with neighbouring countries. International traders in western Europe began to use the Duchy as currency and unit of account, preferring it to the traditional florin. From then on, this coin, made of gold or silver, was used for commercial purposes all over Europe until the 20th century. The Austrian mint continued to mint Ducats until 1914. The coin was reintroduced in 1920, after the First World War, but as an investment currency and no longer as a trading currency. The purpose was the commemoration of Emperor Franz Joseph I, who died in 1916.

All ducats produced after 1914 bear the date 1915 regardless of the year in which the coins were issued.

The characteristics of Austrian Duchy coins

Gold ducats are formidable investment coins with an incredible historical connection. Besides the commemoration of the Austrian-Hungarian Emperor, they are part of European economic and commercial history.

They inherited their design and appearance from the medieval gold coins of Europe, as they are rather thin compared to modern gold coins, but large in size (40mm instead of 37 for a weight of 13.96 on 4 Ducats).

On the obverse of the coin, in addition to the emperor's right-facing bust, the words FRANC IOS I D G AUSTRIAE IMPERATOR are impressed in a circle. It indicates the principal title of Franz Joseph, Emperor of Austria.

On the reverse, on the other hand, we find the Austrian coat of arms of the crowned two-headed eagle. This symbol has spiritual connotations of connection with the higher self and the ability to see everything. Around the animal the inscription HUNGAR BOHEM GAL LOD ILL REX A 1915 indicates the other territories over which Franz Joseph exercised his authority as Emperor.

The Golden Duchy of Austria is a much sought-after investment coin for collectors, especially because of its historical connection with the past, which saw Austria-Hungary as one of the predominant states in Europe.

Interesting facts about Austrian coins Gold Duchies

The Gold Duchies are a historical coin, linked to the European commercial tradition. It is recorded that they were first issued by the Kingdom of Austria in 1612, although they probably existed much earlier. Those in circulation today are minted with 986/1000 pure gold equal to 23.75 carats. This makes the Duchies among the purest gold coins to have been issued before the end of the 20th century.

From 1892 to 1915, the reverse of the coin featured a black two-headed eagle with open wings, a symbolism borrowed from the Holy Roman Empire. In its left paw the eagle held a sceptre and sword, while in its right it held the globe, a symbol of the imperial and military power held by the Habsburgs. On its breast was the coat of arms of Austria and on its head was the Austrian imperial crown.

Why buy a Gold Duchy investment coin

The gold ducat produced by Münze Osterreich AG is one of the most popular investment coins:

• pure gold title 986/1000, equivalent to 23.75 carats;
• it is a coin that carries a centuries-old history;
• it is one of the most popular coins among collectors and investors;
• it has an ancient design typical of medieval coins;
• shipping with Orovilla is secure, confidential and insured.

Gold has always been one of the safest precious metals for investment, and has proven to perform well even in times of conflict or economic instability.

Gold in coinage represents a reserve of cash to be used in times of need. Gold Ducatis are coins of great historical significance. These coins give a sense of stability, as they have survived for more than 400 years and convey the idea accepted by all today: gold will remain one of the best and most affordable means of investment.

Also not to be underestimated is the convenience of buying the coin, which is exempt from VAT as it is investment gold.

Other coins minted by the prestigious Münze Österreich AG in our store include Crowns, Marenghi, the magnificent Vienna Philharmonic and Austrian Gold Schillings.

How to sell your coins Austrian Gold Ducats

Due to its popularity, the Gold Duchy offers good resale potential and is particularly suitable as an investment coin.

You can disinvest your Austrian Gold Duchy coins at any time. Orovilla buys investment gold coins: all common gold coins, coin collections, and rare and collector gold coins.
At the time of purchase we appraise the coins, check them carefully for gold content, authenticity and condition.
The possibility of selling physical gold in any form and state of preservation, at any time and place, is its advantage over other forms of investment.