Gold Coin
The Archducal Crown of Austria

Affectionately known as the ‘Archduke’s Hat’ due to the red velvet cap in its lining, the Archducal Crown was a symbol of authority never actually used in coronations. It is a relic of exquisite beauty nonetheless, as shown by the second coin in our Crowns of the House of Habsburg series.

Emperor Rudolf IV invented the title of ‘Archduke’ in an attempt to assert the status of the House of Habsburg as the equal of any Prince Elector of the Holy Roman Empire. The Archduke’s Hat is a diadem of eight golden peaks, three of which can be seen on the coin’s obverse where the crown is shown resting on the cushion of the federal lower states of Austria. The cushion was used to carry the crown into Vienna from its home in the monastery of Klosterneuburg for the ceremony of homage paid by the Estates of Lower Austria on the accession of a new Habsburg ruler. The reverse of the coin depicts the solemn ceremonial procession, with three high-ranking officials carrying the crown, orb and sceptre from the palace to the cathedral through the streets of Vienna.

Struck in 986 fine gold, exclusively in Proof quality with a maximum mintage of 30,000 pieces, each coin comes in an attractive box with a numbered certificate of authenticity as well as a replica lapel pin. A prestigious collection case for the whole series of five coins may be purchased separately.