Venice

Francesco Contarini, Doge of Venice 1623-1624

Fr-1294, PCGS-graded About Uncirculated Details

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; clear design, nicely centered but having some old abuse.

This 95th Doge of Venice reigned from 8 September 1623 until his death fourteen months later. He loved to travel and had earlier been a diplomat for Venice. He died of a sudden illness before he could accomplish much as doge. His coins are very rare.