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The Denmark 20 Kroner Gold 1877-CS MS64 PCGS is a highly attractive and well-preserved example of late 19th-century European gold coinage, showcasing the regal portrait of King Christian IX during a time of national consolidation and industrial advancement. Struck in Copenhagen and bearing the "CS" mintmaster’s initials for C. Svendsen, this coin represents the first year of issue for Denmark’s modern 20 Kroner gold denomination. Its certification by PCGS in Mint State 64 condition ensures exceptional quality, with sharp detail, vibrant luster, and minimal signs of handling, placing it among the upper echelon of surviving specimens.
The Danish 20 Kroner gold coins were introduced as part of Denmark’s adoption of the Scandinavian Monetary Union, a tri-nation agreement between Denmark, Sweden, and Norway established in 1873. The agreement aligned the participating countries’ currencies with the gold standard and permitted coins to circulate interchangeably across borders. Denmark issued its first 20 Kroner coins in 1873, but the first gold pieces bearing the image of King Christian IX appeared in 1877. These coins retained intrinsic value and high artistic merit, while also representing Denmark’s participation in a growing European economic framework.
The obverse of the 1877-CS 20 Kroner features a right-facing bust of King Christian IX of Denmark, sculpted with great realism and attention to detail. The king’s short beard, mustache, and receding hairline are rendered with subtle depth and character. Around the portrait, the legend reads "CHRISTIAN IX KONGE AF DANMARK," which translates to "Christian IX, King of Denmark." The engraving was executed by Harald Conradsen, the chief engraver of the Royal Danish Mint, who was well known for his skillful portraits. On Mint State 64 examples, the obverse detail remains bold and crisp, with sharp hairlines and strong fields unmarred by distracting marks or friction.
The reverse displays the crowned Danish coat of arms, which consists of three lions passant in the upper shield and various other heraldic emblems representing the king’s titles and dominions, such as Schleswig, Holstein, and Iceland. The shield is supported by two rampant lions, and surmounted by a large, ornate crown. The denomination “20 KRONER” is inscribed beneath the shield, with the year of issue, “1877,” placed above. Below the date appears the mintmaster's initials "CS," identifying C. Svendsen, who oversaw coin production during this period. The intricate nature of the coat of arms requires careful striking, and MS64 pieces reveal rich detail throughout the reverse, especially in the texture of the lions and crown.
Each coin was struck in 90% gold and 10% copper, following the standard composition for Scandinavian Union coinage. It weighs 8.96 grams, with a gold content of 0.2592 troy ounces, and measures 23 millimeters in diameter. The added copper alloy improves durability for circulation, though high-grade survivors like this MS64 specimen exhibit few if any signs of wear, suggesting limited or no time spent in actual commerce. Coins of this caliber are highly sought after, particularly from the early years of the series and bearing clear, undisturbed luster and sharply defined strike characteristics.
Christian IX ruled Denmark from 1863 until his death in 1906 and was sometimes referred to as “the Father-in-law of Europe” due to the advantageous marriages of his children into various European royal families. His reign was marked by significant political and constitutional reform as Denmark adjusted to the loss of Schleswig and Holstein in the Second Schleswig War. The introduction of a stable, modern currency under the Scandinavian Monetary Union was one of the economic achievements of his rule, and these gold coins reflect both the aesthetic pride and monetary confidence of late 19th-century Denmark.
While exact mintage figures for the 1877-CS 20 Kroner are estimated at approximately 100,000 coins, significantly fewer survive in high Mint State grades. Many of these coins were melted during the dissolution of the gold standard or simply circulated heavily during their time. As such, MS64 examples are relatively scarce and command a premium for their combination of historical significance, beauty, and preservation. Coins graded this high are generally reserved for the most discerning collectors and for numismatists building type sets of Scandinavian or European monarchal gold coinage.
PCGS, one of the world’s foremost third-party grading services, has awarded this coin a Mint State 64 designation, indicating that the coin has no wear and displays full original mint luster with only a few small marks or abrasions visible under magnification. This makes it a superb quality piece that balances eye appeal and investment potential. Its encapsulation within a tamper-evident holder ensures both authenticity and long-term preservation, and the clear labeling of its grade, date, and variety adds to its market credibility and desirability.
The 1877-CS 20 Kroner gold coin appeals not only to collectors of Danish or Scandinavian coinage but also to those with broader interests in 19th-century European history, monarchies, and classical gold issues. Its aesthetic sophistication, political symbolism, and sound intrinsic value make it a compelling choice for a variety of collecting themes, including first-year issues, historic monetary unions, or portraits of European royalty. As the first gold coin to depict Christian IX, it also serves as a regal and numismatically important portrait of one of Denmark’s most influential kings.
In conclusion, the Certified Denmark 20 Kroner Gold 1877-CS MS64 PCGS is a shining example of 19th-century European coinage excellence. With its connection to both national identity and international cooperation, its striking regal imagery, and its pristine Mint State 64 condition, this coin is an outstanding acquisition for collectors seeking historical gold of both substance and style. It represents the perfect convergence of political legacy, artistic craftsmanship, and enduring value within the world of numismatics.