Corsica 1762 2 soldi
This specimen was lot 1651 in Jean Elsen sale 149 (Brussels, December 2021), where it sold for €420 (about US$569 including buyer's fees). The catalog description[1] noted,
"FRANCE, CORSE, Pascal Paoli (1755-1769), Billon 2 soldi, 1762, Murato. D/ Armoiries. R/ Valeur dans une couronne. Rare Légers défauts de flan. Très Beau. (France, Corsica, Pascal Paoli, 1755-69, billon two soldi of 1762, Murato mint. Obverse: arms; reverse: value below a crown. Rare, light flan defects, Very Fine.)"
We have filed this rare issue under Genoa, which in 1762 was the nominal ruler of the island. In 1768, the Genoese, unable to subdue the rebellion, cheerfully sold Corsica to the French, who proceeded to reconquer the island with fire and desolation. This type was struck 1762-66 by Pasquale Paoli, the leader of the rebels.
Recorded mintage: unknown but very scarce.
Specification: billon, this specimen 1,28 g.
Catalog reference: KM C6, Gad-6.
- Michael, Thomas, Standard Catalog of World Coins, 1701-1800, 7th ed., Iola, WI: Krause Publications, 2016.
- [1]Elsen, Philippe, et al., Vente Publique 149: Monnaies, Médailles et Décorations, Brussels: Jean Elsen et ses Fils S.A., 2021.
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