Joseph II, 1765-1790, Emperor, 1765-1780 co-regent. Medal (3 Ducats) 1760, AV 28 mm, 10.40 g. On the occasion of his marriage with Elisabeth (Isabella) of Borbon-Parma. Dies by Anton Franz Widemann. IOSEPH A A ELISAB BOVRB PHILIP HISP INF FILIA Busts of the couple right, the engraver's initials A.W. on Joseph's arm. Rev. FELIX CONNVBIVM Hymenaios light the fire on an altar with a torch and holds two wreaths, in exergue CELEBRAT VINDOB / VI OCT MDCCLX. Schaumünzen CXLIV; Montenuovo coll. 1893 (AR) Tiny edge nick. Good extremely fine NGC MS 62 Top Pop (2188201-004) The marriage of Joseph and Isabella was the result of the ‘Renversement des alliances’ – the reorientation of Habsburg alliances and foreign policy intended to bring an end to the traditional rivalry with their arch-enemy, France. Maria Theresa and Louis XV strengthened the Habsburgs’ dynastic ties with the Bourbons. To strengthen the alliance and as an outward sign of harmony, they arranged Joseph’s marriage to Isabella of Bourbon-Parma, a granddaughter of the French king. The 18-year-old Isabella, Infanta of Spain, was the eldest daughter of Duke Philip of Parma and his wife Marie Louise Élisabeth de Bourbon. She was an unusually enlightened and educated woman for her time. Her interests included philosophy, politics, religion, ethics, diplomacy, military strategy, world trade, education and upbringing, culture, and the position of women in society. Whilst Joseph adored his wife, she felt more drawn to his younger sister, Marie Christine. Isabella died of smallpox as early as 1763. Please find here the video of the coin