$12,886.00 USD
The 1350–1439 Gold Ducat of the Roman Senate, graded NGC MS66, is a remarkably well-preserved example of medieval papal-state coinage struck under the authority of the Senate of Rome, likely during the Avignon Papacy or the Western Schism. While modeled after Venetian ducats in form and weight, these Roman Senate issues emphasize the city’s religious and civic symbolism, expressing allegiance to both Saint Peter and the Madonna, Rome’s traditional protectors.
Obverse: Depicts Saint Peter, standing left and holding a cross-staff, presenting a banner to a kneeling senator or civic figure, who represents the Roman Senate. A key — the symbol of Saint Peter — appears between them. The legend reads:
“S. PETRVS. APOSTOLVS.”, identifying the patron saint.
Reverse: Shows the Virgin Mary standing within a mandorla (almond-shaped aureole), surrounded by 12 stars, referencing her divine purity and the Apocalypse symbolism of the Woman of Revelation. The Latin legend encircling the image references the Roman Senate: “SENATVS. P.Q.R. ROMANVS” — The Senate and People of Rome.
Struck in high-purity gold (~3.5g of .986 fine), this ducat aligns with the Venetian ducat standard, used widely in European and Mediterranean commerce. Graded NGC MS66, this example is not only sharply struck and perfectly centered but also extraordinarily rare in such condition. The grade places it at the pinnacle of known examples — with fully lustrous surfaces, no visible wear, and essentially flawless medieval craftsmanship!
