The Ducat is a historic gold coin that was widely used across Europe for centuries. The Austrian Gold Ducat is one of the most famous versions, especially the Franz Joseph I Ducat.

On the obverse (front side), Emperor Franz Joseph I is depicted in profile, facing right, with a laurel wreath on his head. The inscription around him reads: "FRANC IOS I D G AUSTRIAE IMPERATOR" ("Franz Joseph I, by the grace of God, Emperor of Austria"). On the 4-ducat coin, the bust extends to include the shoulders and chest of the ruler.

On the reverse (back side), the coat of arms of the Habsburg dynasty is displayed, crowned with a double-headed eagle and a crown. It is accompanied by the inscription: "HVNGAR BOHEM GAL LOD ILL REX AA 1915" (Hungary, Bohemia, Galicia, Lodomeria, Illyria, King and Archduke of Austria, 1915).

The coin is struck in .986 pure gold, making it one of the purest historical gold coins. It weighs 3.49 grams for the 1-ducat version and 13.96 grams for the 4-ducat version.