Florence

Ferdinando I de’ Medici, Grand Duke of Tuscany 1587-1608

MIR 213/1; Fr-301, PCGS-graded About Uncirculated Details

Obverse depicts a Lily. On the reverse has St. John standing. A choice example having lovely deep gold toning.

Ferdinando was the younger brother of Francesco. In 1587, Francesco died and Ferdinando became Duke. A strikingly opposite personality to his brother, he was approachable, generous, and truly cared about the welfare of his subjects. He enacted laws promoting tolerance for Jews and heretics, and built up the power of the Medici banks throughout Europe. He also brought opera to his grateful city.