GERMANY. Kaiserreich. Bayern. Ludwig II, 1864-1886. Pattern 5 Mark (Steel, 23 mm, 14.85 g), private test strike, no date ( after 1877). LUDWIG II - KŒNIG V. BAYERN Bare head of Ludwig II to right, D below. Rev. Blank. Cf. Friedberg 3767 and Jaeger 195 (for prototype). Rare. Minor corrosion, otherwise, extremely fine.



The precise origin of these enigmatic pieces, which are often described as patterns, remains unclear. Their manufacture and material may also suggest that they were actually patrixes used in the production of coinage dies.