11.11g Austrian 1000 Schilling Gold Coin - Spanish Riding School Commemorative
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative Gold) · Yellow Gold (High luster with a slightly warm, classical tone typical of 90% purity alloys).
Purity: 90% Gold (900 Fineness/21.6K). This purity represents a standard historical alloy where gold is blended with 10% copper or silver for durability.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative Gold)
Purity
90% Gold (900 Fineness/21.6K). This purity represents a standard historical alloy where gold is blended with 10% copper or silver for durability.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (High luster with a slightly warm, classical tone typical of 90% purity alloys).
Weight
Total weight: 13.5 grams; Actual Gold Weight (AGW): 12.15 grams (0.3907 troy oz).
Description
An exquisite specimen of Austrian numismatic art, this gold coin celebrates the world-renowned Spanish Riding School and the Lipizzaner horse. The obverse depicts a rider in traditional uniform on a prancing Lipizzaner stallion, surrounded by the capital letters 'REPUBLIK ÖSTERREICH'. The striking features high-relief details against mirror-like fields, embodying the prestige of Viennese culture and the stability of the Austrian Schilling prior to the Euro transition.
Key Features
Depiction of the 'High School' of classical dressage; '900' fineness purity; Austrian Mint's high-relief striking; commemorative status for the millennium of the Babenberg dynasty or specific school anniversaries.
Color & Finish
Brilliant Yellow with a Proof or semi-prooflike finish. The fields (background) are reflective while the device (the rider) exhibits satin-like frosted contrast.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The coin features the legend 'REPUBLIK ÖSTERREICH' (Republic of Austria). On the reverse (not fully visible here but part of the series), the denomination '1000 SCHILLING' and the date are stamped.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter: 27 mm; Thickness: approximately 1.6 mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. This is a pure precious metal numismatic striking.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge. The vertical serrations along the edge provide security against shaving metal off the coin's circumference.
Chain & Links
Not applicable as this is a coin; however, the milling on the edge is uniform and sharp, indicating a high-quality mint press striking.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck using hardened steel dies. The precision of the 'levade' position of the horse demonstrates superior die-engraving and pressure control typical of European state mints.
Authentication Indicators
Distinct modern Austrian typography; crispness of the rider's uniform; specific 900-fineness color signature; uniform reeded edge consistent with Münze Österreich standards.
Origin & Maker
Austria; Produced by the Münze Österreich (Austrian Mint).
Era & Period
Contemporary/Modern Era (Late 20th Century). This specific design reflects the Austrian tradition of the Spanish Riding School.
Age Estimate
Likely minted in the mid-1970s (specifically 1976 for this 1000 Schilling commemorative type).
Cultural Significance
Represents the pinnacle of Austrian national identity and the preservation of European high culture and equestrian mastery.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent (XF/AU grade). Visible surface hairline scratches and light circulation marks on the fields suggest it was handled without a capsule, but detail remains sharp.
Value Estimate
Valued at current gold spot price for 0.39 oz plus a numismatic premium of 5-15%. Estimated market value $950 - $1,100 depending on daily gold rates and collector demand.
Care & Maintenance
Handle only by the edges using cotton gloves to prevent oil transfer. Store in a PVC-free airtight capsule. Do not polish or clean chemically as this destroys numismatic value.
Similar Items
Austrian 100 Corona Gold Restrikes, Ducat Restrikes, or the modern 100 Euro 'Vienna Philharmonic' gold bullion coins.
Interesting Facts
The Spanish Riding School in Vienna is the only institution in the world which has practiced for over 450 years and continues to cultivate classical equitation in the Renaissance tradition.