Ultra Rare Unknown Variant Prototype Medal

This is an ultra rare, unknown variant prototype medal featuring a bust with the inscription "FRIEDRICH GROSHERZOG BADEN". The reverse side is blank. This item is a unique collectible.
German States – Baden, Friedrich II, Grand Duke of Baden, Unfinished or Trial Portrait Medal, Early 20th Century
An unusual and apparently unfinished portrait medal depicting Friedrich II, Grand Duke of Baden. The obverse bears a right-facing military portrait surrounded by the inscription “Friedrich Grossherzog von Baden,” identifying the ruler as Frederick, Grand Duke of Baden.
The piece is particularly noteworthy for its unconventional construction. The reverse is almost entirely blank, while the medal has been pierced twice, with one hole positioned near the top and another near the bottom. These features suggest that it may have been intended as a workshop trial, pattern, mounting piece, production sample, or unfinished medal component rather than a standard officially issued medal.
The portrait and surrounding lettering remain visible despite the heavily toned and worn surfaces. The impression is somewhat weak and irregular, which further supports the possibility that this was a test or incomplete production piece. Friedrich II ruled Baden from 1907 until the abolition of the German monarchies in 1918, placing the likely date of manufacture in the early 20th century.
The reverse appears largely plain, with only faint traces of surface texture or indistinct markings. The metal has developed a dark grey-brown patina with areas of oxidation, deposits, scratches, and general age-related wear. The two drilled holes are old and form an important part of the object’s unusual character.
The previous holder labelled the medal as an “ultra rare unknown variant” and “prototype medal.” These descriptions have not been independently verified and should be treated as a prior attribution rather than established fact. Nevertheless, the blank reverse, unusual piercing, weak strike, and non-standard format make this an interesting specialist piece for collectors of German states, Baden, royal portrait medals, patterns, trial strikes, and unfinished mint or workshop material.
Country/territory: German States, Baden
Ruler: Friedrich II, Grand Duke of Baden
Date: Early 20th century, likely circa 1907–1918
Type: Portrait medal, possibly unfinished, trial, pattern, or workshop piece
Metal: Base metal, exact composition untested
Obverse: Uniformed portrait of Friedrich II facing right, with surrounding inscription
Reverse: Largely blank
Special features: Pierced twice, unusual unfinished format
Condition: Heavily circulated or workshop-worn condition, with dark toning, oxidation, scratches, weak details, surface deposits, and two drilled holes
A scarce and highly unusual Baden-related medallic piece whose exact original purpose remains uncertain.