POLAND. Taler, ND (1684)-SVP. Bydgoszcz Mint. John III Sobieski. PCGS AU-58. Dav-4345; H-Cz-2533 (R7); Kop-2002 (R7); Kur-1252 (R8); Gum-2006. Obverse: Laureate, armored, and draped bust of John III Sobieski right; SVP below; Reverse: Crowned coat-of-arms of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. Talers of John Sobieski are <strong>EXCESSIVELY RARE</strong> and extremely popular accounting to their beauty in addition to their elusiveness. Produced for only a short period in 1584, almost all of these crowns were lost to time, making an example in this state of preservation even more important for collectors. This example shows only the lightest traces of circulation on the laurels and mustache, with incredible steely brilliance retained. The strike is impressive, with nearly a full impressment of details, and some alluring deep toning serves to add a flavor of antiquate beauty to the surfaces. A tremendous Taler that would look incredible as a capstone piece to any collection of Polish coins or general world crowns. From the Anthony J. Taraszka Collection.
