Corsica 1766 4 soldi
This specimen was lot 1449 in Jean Elsen sale 165 (Brussels, June 2026), where it sold for €220 (about US$303 including buyer's fees). The catalog description[1] noted,
"FRANCE, CORSE, Pascal Paoli (1755-1769), Billon 4 soldi, 1766, Murato. D/ T. de Maure à g. dans un cartouche couronné. R/ Valeur et date dans une couronne. Très Beau. (kingdom of France, Corsica, Pascal Paoli, 1755-69, billon four soldi of 1766, Murato mint. Obverse: Moor's head left in a crowned cartouche; reverse: value and date in a wreath. Very Fine.)"
We have filed this rare issue under Genoa, which in 1765 was the nominal ruler of the island. In 1768, the Genoese, unable to subdue the rebellion, cheerfully sold Corsica to the French, which proceeded to reconquer the island with fire and desolation. This type was struck 1762-67 by Pasquale Paoli, the leader of the rebels.
Recorded mintage: unknown.
Specification: 2.27 g, billon, 21 mm diameter, this specimen 2,24 g.
Catalog reference: KM C7, Gad-7.
- Michael, Thomas, Standard Catalog of World Coins, 1701-1800, 7th ed., Iola, WI: Krause Publications, 2016.
- [1]Elsen, Philippe, et al., Vente Publique 165, Brussels: Jean Elsen et ses Fils S.A., 2026.
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