2 Ducats (Sede Vacante) 1715 front 2 Ducats (Sede Vacante) 1715 back
2 Ducats (Sede Vacante) 1715 photo
© Münzkabinett - Staatliche Museen zu Berlin (CC BY-SA 4.0)

2 Ducats Sede Vacante

1715 year
Gold (.986) 7 g 29 mm
Description
Issuer
Archbishopric of Trier (German States)
Type
Circulating commemorative coin
Year
1715
Value
2 Ducats (7)
Currency
Thaler
Composition
Gold (.986)
Weight
7 g
Diameter
29 mm
Shape
Round
Orientation
Medal alignment ↑↑
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#418463
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Crowned facing figure of St. Helena, date in exergue.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
SANCTA HELENA FVNDATRIX ECCLESIÆ
SEDE VACANTE
ANNO 1715

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it was minted during a time of political and religious turmoil in Europe, specifically during the Sede Vacante (or "empty seat") period of the Catholic Church, which lasted from 1715 to 1717. This period occurred between the death of Pope Clement XI and the election of Pope Innocent XIII, and was marked by a struggle for power and influence within the Church. Despite this, the Archbishopric of Trier continued to mint coins, including this 2 Ducats coin, which features an image of the Archbishop's mitre and staff on one side and the coat of arms of the Archbishopric on the other. This coin serves as a tangible reminder of the enduring power and influence of the Catholic Church during this time of upheaval.