$237
17th Century Venetian Silver Doge's Commemorative Medallion/ Osela , c. 1655, minted by Francesco Molin (1575-1655), the 99th Doge of Venice during the ninth and final year of his reign, depicting scene of the doge kneeling before St. Mark and a monk saint verso, and with motto "Et non fulta non fluxa" with flame over water and the year VIII recto, dia. 1 3/8 in. Note: Molin's nine year reign as Doge is notable due to the hostilities that occurred during this period between Venice and the Ottoman Empire. The Latin motto on the reverse of his osela celebrates the Most Serene Republic's strength in battle against this enemy. Molin is also noteworthy for increasing the size of the patrician class in Venice by selling titles in order to increase to coffers of the government.
Auctioneer:
Skinner
Date:
2009-10-03