Italy - Venetian Republic 1382 Tornesello
Offered here is a rare billon Tornesello issued in 1382 under Doge Michele Morosini, Paolucci#4, PAP#4, CNI VII#19. Being in average condition for the type, this example retains strong identifying markers, and an attractive, dark patina. The obverse depicts the winged lion of San Marco facing with book, surrounded by the inscription ‘VENELIFER VENETIA,’ while the reverse displays a cross, surrounded by the inscription ‘MIChL MAVROC DVX.’
Although Tournesellos of this vintage are generally not rare, this particular issue is an exception, being rated RRR in Paolucci. The reason for this is that Doge Michele Morosini only ruled from June to October 1382, at which point he succumbed to the plague which was sweeping through Venice at the time. As such, a fascinating and very difficult piece of numismatic history.
Offered here is a rare billon Tornesello issued in 1382 under Doge Michele Morosini, Paolucci#4, PAP#4, CNI VII#19. Being in average condition for the type, this example retains strong identifying markers, and an attractive, dark patina. The obverse depicts the winged lion of San Marco facing with book, surrounded by the inscription ‘VENELIFER VENETIA,’ while the reverse displays a cross, surrounded by the inscription ‘MIChL MAVROC DVX.’
Although Tournesellos of this vintage are generally not rare, this particular issue is an exception, being rated RRR in Paolucci. The reason for this is that Doge Michele Morosini only ruled from June to October 1382, at which point he succumbed to the plague which was sweeping through Venice at the time. As such, a fascinating and very difficult piece of numismatic history.
Offered here is a rare billon Tornesello issued in 1382 under Doge Michele Morosini, Paolucci#4, PAP#4, CNI VII#19. Being in average condition for the type, this example retains strong identifying markers, and an attractive, dark patina. The obverse depicts the winged lion of San Marco facing with book, surrounded by the inscription ‘VENELIFER VENETIA,’ while the reverse displays a cross, surrounded by the inscription ‘MIChL MAVROC DVX.’
Although Tournesellos of this vintage are generally not rare, this particular issue is an exception, being rated RRR in Paolucci. The reason for this is that Doge Michele Morosini only ruled from June to October 1382, at which point he succumbed to the plague which was sweeping through Venice at the time. As such, a fascinating and very difficult piece of numismatic history.