Lot 3376
Italian States: Mirandola. Doppia, ND. Fr-744; CNI-pl.IX,15. Gianfrancesco Pico, 1499-1533. Plain bust right. Legend - (Eagle). I. F. PICVS MI - RAND. D. C. C. Reverse :; St. Francis kneeling. Legend -. MIRACVLVM. (flower). AMORIS. Extremely Rare. Probably the Finest Known. NGC graded AU-55.
The city of Mirandola was an independent principality in Modena. During the renaissance period it came into the possession of the Pico family, and developed as a fortress city. Instead of political ambitions, the Pico family preferred knowledge and philosophy.
Gian Francesco Pico (1470-1533) was the nephew of the famous Giovanni Pico della Mirandola. Like his uncle, he devoted himself to philosophy, and in his 63-year life, he ruled as Lord of Mirandola for only a short period (1499 to 1502, then shortly in 1511).
He was able to witness Louis XII's invasion and the Italian wars. The city stood on the French side and was besieged by the Papal troops from 1510 to 1511, but for the majority of the time it stayed in peace. In 1515, the city gained the minting rights, and several types of trade coinage were struck bearing his head, including this presenting piece.
All gold coinage of Mirandola are very rare. Only a few examples have entered the market in many years. This exceptional specimen in such high grade is definitely the finest we have been able to trace.
Estimated Value $75,000 - 100,000.
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