SWITZERLAND. Basel. 2 Goldgulden, ND (ca. 17th Century). NGC AU-55.Fr-24; HMZ-2-72b var; Divo-1310 var. Obverse: Basilisk holds a large square-top shield; Reverse: Large orb in wreath, "DOMINE CONSERVA NOS IN PACE" (translated: "O Lord Preserve us in Peace") around. Impressively preserved, maintaining strong reflective qualities in the fields and glowing orange tone that increases the vibrancy over both sides. Some doubling of the design is seen, which seems to suggest a broadly rotated second strike, but closer study confirms this piece was actually struck over a similarly designed, albeit distinctly separate variety that is unlisted (and goes without mention) in any reference we are aware of. While not easy to discern, the primary determining factor is the presence of several tiny crossed orbs on the reverse that remain visible beneath the sextafoil that surrounds the central orb. We know of only one example of this undertype that exists, that piece having sold in a 2008 UBS auction (Auction 76 - Lot 3931) without any mention of its differences. That coin, which displays considerable softness in the centers, could be the key to why this overstrike occurred in the first place; its shallow dies possibly regarded as imperfect, thus leading to the creation of new ones. All considered, a fascinating item, worthy of further study by the specialist in the series.<p>
