Austria 20 Corona Gold Coin

The Austria 20 Corona Gold Coin, minted during the reign of Emperor Franz Joseph I, is a notable piece of Austrian numismatic history. Struck between 1892 and 1916, this coin has become a favorite among collectors and investors due to its classic design and historical significance.

Design and Specifications

• Obverse (front): Features the right-facing portrait of Emperor Franz Joseph I, with the inscription "FRANC IOS I D G IMP AVSTR REX BOH GAL ILL ETC ET AP REX HVNG" encircling the image.
• Reverse (back): Depicts the imperial double-headed eagle, which is crowned and holding a sword and orb, with the denomination "20 COR" and the date below.
• Weight: 6.775 grams
• Gold Content: 0.1960 troy ounces of pure gold
• Fineness: 90% gold (0.900 fineness)

Mint Marks and Varieties

The Austria 20 Corona Gold Coin was primarily minted in Vienna, which does not carry a mint mark. However, certain features and years of mintage can make specific coins more valuable:

• 1892: The first year of issue, making it particularly sought after by collectors.
• 1916: The final year of issue, which coincides with the end of Emperor Franz Joseph I's reign and the conclusion of World War I, adding historical significance.
• 1908 "Jubilee" Issue: Although not a special edition, coins minted in 1908 were struck to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Emperor Franz Joseph I's reign, making them more desirable.

Common Dates vs. Rare Dates

Common dates for the Austria 20 Corona tend to be those minted in the early 1900s, particularly from 1908 to 1912, which had higher mintages. These coins are often more accessible and are frequently traded based on their gold content.

Rare Dates and Varieties

Some of the rarer and more valuable dates include the initial 1892 mintage and the final 1916 issue. Collectors also seek out coins from 1908 due to the "Jubilee" connection. These coins can command higher premiums due to their relative scarcity and historical context.

Various Grades and Values

The value of Austria 20 Corona Gold Coins is influenced by their condition (grade), rarity, and specific year of mintage. Here is a general estimate of the value based on grades for common-date coins:

• Good (G): $400-500
• Fine (F): $450-550
• Extremely Fine (XF): $500-600
• About Uncirculated (AU): $600-700
• Brilliant Uncirculated (BU/MS): $700-900

Rare dates and specific varieties, such as the 1892 or 1916 issues, can command prices significantly higher, often reaching into the thousands for coins in higher grades.

The Austria 20 Corona Gold Coin is a significant piece of European coinage history. Coins from the initial and final years of mintage, as well as the 1908 "Jubilee" issue, are particularly sought after and can command substantial premiums. Common-date coins are more affordable and often traded for their gold content, making them a popular choice for both collectors and investors. The coin's value increases notably with higher grades and more desirable years of mintage.

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