Tuscany 1783 paolo
This specimen was lot 4874 in Goldberg sale 74 (Los Angeles, June 2013), where it did not sell. The catalog description[1] noted, "Italian States - Tuscany. Paolo, 1783. Pietro Leopoldo. Bust right. Reverse: Crowned arms. Nice original luster with light gray toning. NGC graded MS-61." This one year type was the first of its denomination issued since 1738. As one tenth of a francescone, it could be interpreted as a decimal coin but with the quattrini, florin, zucchini and rusponi also being issued, we don't believe a decimal system was intended. The denomination was revived in 1788 with a different bust. Peter Leopold was the second son of Maria Theresia of Austria and emperor Joseph II's brother. He became emperor himself on the death of Joseph in 1790 but his reign lasted only until his death in 1792. In 1800, Tuscany was occupied by the French and not returned to Hapsburg rule until 1815.
Recorded mintage: unknown.
Specification: 2.74 grams, .920 fine silver, .081 troy oz ASW.
Catalog reference: KM-C17.
- Michael, Thomas, Standard Catalog of World Coins, 1701-1800, 7th ed., Iola, WI: Krause Publications, 2016.
- [1]Goldberg, Ira, Larry Goldberg and Steven Harvey, Goldberg Sale 74: the pre-Long Beach Sale, Los Angeles: Goldberg Coins & Collectibles, 2013.
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