Venice

Nicolo Dona, Doge of Venice 1618

Fr-1287, M.617, PCGS-graded MS-62

Obverse depicts St. Mark standing right presenting banner to kneeling Doge. On the reverse Christ standing facing within stars, holding the gospel and raising hand in benediction. Very rare; bold legends and excellently centered.

Also known as Nicolo Donato, he came from a patrician family and was a man of letters. He rose through the civil ranks, gaining a reputation for being careful with money, for which he was called stingy. His dogado lasted only 35 days (4 April to 9 May), thus he died before he could accomplish anything. His coins are accordingly quite rare.