A really interesting "Super Sized" copper coin from Sweden from the reign of Carl XI. The CUSTOM LARGE NGC holder is 8"x6" to house this massive piece of history. What a challenge it must have been to carry this giant coin in one's pockets! A great piece of history in terrific condition at a very modest price and value. Just the certification alone would set on back more than $100.00 if sent alone to NGC. An opportunity for the savvy collector.

Carl XI of Sweden, also known as Charles XI, was King of Sweden from 1660 until his death in 1697. He was the son of Charles X Gustav and Hedwig Eleonora of Holstein-Gottorp. Here are key points about Carl XI:

  1. Birth and Early Life: Carl XI was born on November 24, 1655, in the Stockholm Palace. His father, Charles X Gustav, died when Carl was just five years old, and he ascended to the throne as a child.


  3. Regency Period: Due to his young age, a regency was established to govern Sweden until Carl XI came of age. His mother, Hedwig Eleonora, played a significant role during this period.


  5. Coronation: Carl XI was officially crowned as king in 1675, at the age of 19.

  6. Military Campaigns: Carl XI faced military challenges during his reign, particularly in the Scanian War (1675–1679) against Denmark and its allies. Despite initial setbacks, Sweden emerged with territorial gains.


  8. Reduction Policy: One of Carl XI's significant domestic policies was the Reduction, implemented to reclaim crown lands and revenues that had been alienated during previous reigns. This policy aimed to restore the financial strength of the crown.


  10. Absolutism: Carl XI worked to strengthen the power of the monarchy and enhance royal authority. He centralized administrative functions and reduced the influence of the nobility.


  12. Religious Policy: Carl XI pursued a policy of religious toleration. In 1686, he issued the Tolerance Act, granting religious freedom to non-Lutheran Christians within the kingdom.


  14. Death and Succession: Carl XI died on April 5, 1697, in Stockholm, at the age of 41. He was succeeded by his son, who became King Charles XII.


  16. Legacy: Carl XI's reign is often seen as a period of consolidation and restoration of royal authority in Sweden. His Reduction policy had a lasting impact on the Swedish economy, and his efforts to centralize power contributed to the development of absolute monarchy.


  18. Personal Life: Carl XI married Ulrika Eleonora of Denmark, with whom he had two surviving children: Charles XII and Ulrika Eleonora, who later became Queen of Sweden.

Carl XI's reign played a role in shaping the trajectory of Sweden in the late 17th century, both in terms of domestic policies and foreign relations. His efforts to strengthen the monarchy had lasting effects on the political landscape of Sweden.