Venice. Nicolo Trono gold Ducat ND (1471-1473) MS61 PCGS, Fr-1235, Paolucci-45.1 (R3), Mont-165 (R3), Bellesia-21 (R/3), CNI-VIIa.10var (pellet placement). NICOL' TRONVS | S | • M | • V | Є | N | Є | T | I, doge kneeling left before St. Mark (standing right), receiving banner, DVX (stacked) to right / SIT • T • XPЄ DΛŦ • Ꝗ TV | RЄGIS ISTЄ DVCΛŦ •, Christ in glory (surrounded by Mandorla) standing facing, book of Gospels in left hand, raised right in benediction, surrounded by 9 stars. While not as famous as the silver Tron, a sort of predecessor to the Lira, which formally replaced the grosso after 27th May 1472, the gold of Nicolo Trono proves exceptionally difficult at all levels. Struck during an incredibly expensive war with the Duchy of Milan, most of the gold ducats from this reign would almost certainly have gone towards financing the war effort, likely leading to many being melted down. As a type, this is one of only 3 certified, with notably few appearing in the Mint State level. An MS62 achieved $15,000 in Stack's August 2018 ANA Auction, clearly pointing to the intensive rarity of the type and the demand such high grade representatives are sure to garner.

HID09801242017

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