© Numismatica Ars Classica NAC AG
© Numismatica Ars Classica NAC AG
2 Ducats - Francis II Gonzaga ND
| Gold | 6.80 g | 28 mm |
| Issuer | Duchy of Mantua (Italian States) |
|---|---|
| Marquess | Francis II (1484-1519) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 1510-1519 |
| Value | 2 Ducats (8) |
| Currency | Scudo |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 6.80 g |
| Diameter | 28 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#320669 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Ornate shield with Gonzaga arms quartered by voided cross in which the Papal keys and cap
Script: Latin
Lettering: (from left) ⬩S ⬩ R ⬩ E ⬩ ⬩ CONF ⬩
Translation:
Sanctae Romanae Ecclesiae Confalonier
Standard bearer of the Holy Roman Church
Comment
Francis was granted the title of Sanctae Romanae Ecclesiae Confalonier by Pope Julius II on 3 October, 1510, enabling this coin to be dated to the end of Francis' reign (ref. Numismatic Ars Classica, Auction 85 catalog 24 May, 2015)Interesting fact
One interesting fact about the 2 Ducats - Francis II Gonzaga ND (1510-1519) coin from the Duchy of Mantua is that it features an unusual design element - a small hole in the center of the coin. This hole was intentionally drilled into the coin as a way to test its authenticity. In the past, counterfeiters would often try to pass off coins made of cheaper metals as gold coins, so the hole was added as a way to prove that the coin was indeed made of gold. When held up to the light, the hole would allow the light to pass through, indicating that the coin was genuine. This feature is unique to the 2 Ducats coin and is not found on other coins from the same era.
