Milan

Charles V, Duke of Milan 1535-1556

Crippa 12, PCGS-graded AU-50

Rare; artistically engraved with a fabulous portrait and lovely ancient patina.

In the Italian Wars, this Holy Roman Emperor long sought supremacy over the French king Francis I. In 1525, his army captured the French king during the battle of Pavia, humiliating him and claiming Milan. Once freed, Francis began fighting Charles again. Overwhelmed by various wars, he abdicated one monarchy after another, and in 1554 he gave Naples and Milan to his son Philip, who married Queen Mary I of England. He surrendered all powers in 1558.