5 dukat, Stockholm, Stockholm, Kristina, 1649

On this coin, we see Queen Kristina in profile with her hair up and a laurel wreath, which symbolises learning. Of her attire, we see what is known as scale armour, a breastplate with snake scales, and a lion’s head at the shoulder, all elegantly draped with a cloak. The scale armour alludes to Minerva, goddess of wisdom, who is often depicted with such armour.

Coins of the 5 ducat denomination have been issued twice in Sweden: initially by King Gustav II Adolf in 1617, and the second time by Queen Kristina, his daughter and successor, in 1649. 5 ducats is the only ducat denomination issued by Kristina in Sweden.

Image rights: Helena Bonnevier, Ekonomiska museet - Kungliga myntkabinettet/SHM (CC BY 4.0)

Object number: 111434_KMK

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