In 1551 the Ducaton was introduced by Charles V in Milan as the silver equivalent of the gold Ducat. The ducaton coin was used from 16th till 18th century and also found it's way to the Spanish Empire.
Philippe III ducaton coin of 1608
In 1618 the Spanish (southern) Netherlands - as we were called at the time - got their own ducaton and around 1650 the Northern Netherlands got their own ducatons or better known now as "silver riders". 32,48 gramms of 944 pure silver being the biggest silver coin ever in the Netherlands.
And now the good news!
As with the Lion dollar the Ducaton/ Silver Rider will see an official proof restrike by the Dutch Mint in 2019 in limited mintage.
Again the dye is re-created with computer technologie comparing several old silver riders.
In a few weeks form now I will receive this one:
The first 500 come in a delft blue holder (see pic on top) made especially for this coin and that makes them extra expensive (EUR 199 per coin with holder). The other 2500 will follow later on. I will keep you posted for the ones without the holder.
Almost forgto:
A gold one is also available still for only 2395 EURO mintage 50. (for our @BRITCOIN pirate maybe?)
Goldrooster