Modena (1559-97) giulio
This specimen was lot 1763 in Jean Elsen sale 149 (Brussels, December 2021), where it sold for €200 (about US$271 including buyer's fees). The catalog description[1] noted,
"ITALIE, MODENE, Alphonse II d'Este (1559-1597), AR giulio. D/ Aigle éployée, t. à g., sous une couronne murale. R/ Saint Geminiano deb. de f., ten. une crosse et une maquette de ville. Rare Taches. Beau à Très Beau. (Italy, duchy of Modena, Alfonso II d'Este, 1559-97, silver giulio. Obverse: eagle displayed, head to left, below a mural crown; reverse; St. Geminiano stands, facing, bearing a cross and a model of the town. Rare, stains, Fine - Very Fine.)"
The Este family managed to remain Dukes of Modena from the sixteenth century until the coming of Napoleon in 1796. However, as Alfonso II was succeeded by his cousin Cesare, Ferrara was seized by the pope and incorporated into the Papal State. The giulio was a denomination more familiar in the Papal States, where it was one-tenth of a scudo.
Recorded mintage: unknown.
Specification: silver.
Catalog reference: M.I.R. 661.
- [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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