$72,000 Gustav I coin leads Julius Hagander Collection at Kuenker auction

Gustav's coin has a fitting place as he was known for leading Sweden's finances out of trouble

Kuenker coins, which is currently plying its trade at the World's Fair of Money in Chicago (until August 20) has an impressive series of auctions lined up at the end of September.

Few numismatists could fail to be impressed by the range on offer as Ancient, Medieval, German, Swedish, Russian and Chinese rare coins are all strongly represented.

There are two segments of major private collections on offer: the first part of the Franz Josef collection and the second section of The Julius Hagander Collection. Let's take a quick look at the latter.

The Julius Hagander Collection of Sweden and its Possessions has 219 lots on offer, and starts with a spectacular piece, worthy of being at the centre of any collection. It is a piece from the reign of Gustav I of Sweden, also known as Gustav Vasa (1521-1560).

Triumphant: Gustav Vasa on his Sweden coronation coin

In Swedish history Gustav has been labeled the founder of modern Sweden, and the "father of the nation", though the nickname belies his ruthlessness.

The coin, minted in Stockholm, marks his 1528 coronation at the Cathedral of Uppsala. The triumphant and armoured king faces outwards with a folded down coat. In his right hand is an uplifted sword and in his left hand the orb.

Between his feet is a shield with the emblem of a grain sheaf. The coin is of the utmost rarity - a very attractive specimen with a beautiful patina.

Gustav had been king for five years before his coronation, putting it off because of the cost given Sweden parlous finances at the time. His great successes were based on his building of those finances to make his regime one of the richest in Europe.

The coronation coin is expected to sell for up to €50,000 ($72,100) in Kuenker's auctions, which run from September 26-30.

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Image: Kuenker