Reading the Stars of Karl VI

5727134.

AUSTRIA, Holy Roman Empire. Karl VI. Emperor, 1711-1740. AR Medal (48mm, 37.05 g, 12h). Election as Holy Roman Emperor. By P.H. Müller. Dated bissextus (12) October 1711. * BIS SEXTO OCTOBRIS LECTVS FELICIBVS ASTRIS, CAROLVS VI VIVAT in monogram set on starry field / * CÆSARIS ELECTI SIGNVM MEMORABILIS, astrological chart of the constellation Virgo with the star Spica labeled. Julius 805. Iridescent toning. EF. A wonderful type.

The obverse depicts the stars on the night of Karl VI’s election as emperor, 12 October 1711, while the reverse shows his horoscope: Virgo, with the fixed star Spica. Spica is associated with success and prosperity, an important sign for the new emperor.