Papacy

Sede Vacante, 1555

Muntoni 6; Berman 1031, PCGS graded XF-45

Ancona. SEDE V-ACANTE, canopy and crossed keys over shield. Reverse: S PETRVS ANCONA, St. Peter standing facing , holding Gospels.

From May 15 to May 23, 1555, the Throne of St, Peter was vacant as cardinals met in conclave to elect Gian Pietro Carafa as the successor of Marcellus II. Carafa, who assumed the name Paul IV, was an unexpected choice due to his severe character, advanced age, and Italian nationalism. Under normal circumstances it is thought that he would have declined taking his seat on the Throne of St. Peter, but that he accepted as an affront to Holy Roman Emperor Charles V, who opposed him.