GERMANY. Sachsen-Albertinische Linie. Kurfürstentum. Friedrich August I der Starke (the Strong), 1694-1733. Dukat (Gold, 21 mm, 3.46 g), so-called 'Coseldukat'. Dresden, no date (after 1716). WER SICH AUFS KÜSSEN LEGT / ANFANG BE/DENCKE Two billing doves. Rev. DER LEGT SICH AUCH AUF BETTE. / DAS ENDE Rooster treads hen to right. Friedberg 2776. Merseburger -, cf. 1588 (in silver). Minor flan faults and small deposits, otherwise, extremely fine.


The so-called Coseldukaten take their name from Countess Anna Constantia von Cosel (1680-1765), one of the most infamous mistresses of Augustus the Strong (1670-1733), King of Poland and Elector of Saxony. In reality, they were jetons valued at a ducat, though they likely circulated beyond the court’s gaming tables as well. Their creator remains unknown, but was almost certainly someone from the wide circle of rivals who resented the countess for her influence over Augustus. That same hand was probably also responsible for spreading the mocking name by which the pieces are known.