Lot 724
Italian States -- Mantua. Scudo of 160 Soldi, 1629. Brause-Mansfield 28, 3; Gnecchi-2200; Dav-3958; KM-231. 29.79 grams. Charles I of Nevers, Duke of Mantua, 1627-1637. Crowned and garnished quartered shield of arms. Reverse: Sunflower tilts to radiant sunface, all within wreath; "160" below. Some slight double-striking, with occasional flatness in the legends, nevertheless bold for issue. Appealing old toning, tending to the pinks and violets, over considerable remaining luster. Very rare, especially in this grade. NGC graded AU-55.
Mantua's history is most ancient, the area being settled at least 4,300 years ago. In the 6th century BC it ranked among the more important Etruscan cities. Rome conquered it in the 3rd century BC, and incorporated it into its territories then known as Cisalpine Gaul. Under the Romans it would be most remembered as the birthplace of their most revered poet, Virgil.
Strategically located on the Lombard plain near the Alpine passes, after the fall of Rome it passed in succession through the hands of the Goths, Byzantines, Langobards and Franks, finally becoming a possession of Canossa. In the Middle Ages and Renaissance, Mantua rose to political and cultural prominence under the rule of the Bonacolsi and Gonzaga families. For three centuries, from 1328-1628, Mantua was one of the major European courts of artistic, cultural, religious and military importance. A century later, Mantua passed back and forth between the hands of the French, the Austrians, other Italians, Napoleon, and the Austrians again, until it finally became incorporated into a united Italy.
Its coinage during the period represented by this exceptional specimen is very rare, as later meltings consumed most known examples. Although simple in design, which reflects the city symbolically, its position in this collection is of considerable importance.
Estimated Value $9,000 - 10,000.
|
| |
| Realized $10,925 |
