$19,406.00 USD
The 1458–1494 Gold Ducat of Naples under King Ferdinand I (Ferrante), graded NGC MS64, is a spectacular late medieval Italian gold issue and a prime artifact of Renaissance numismatics. Struck during the rule of Ferdinand I of Naples, this ducat showcases the Aragonese influence over southern Italy and reflects a critical period in Neapolitan monetary reform and artistic coin production.
Obverse: Features a right-facing crowned bust of King Ferdinand I, wearing a broad ceremonial crown with detailed facial and drapery elements. Behind his head is the letter “T”, denoting the mint of Naples. The encircling Latin legend reads:
“RECORDAT MISERICOR SVE” — He remembers His mercy, drawn from Psalm 98:3, emphasizing divine legitimacy.
Reverse: Displays the crowned arms of Aragon and Naples, quartered and vertically aligned in a richly Gothic shield. The surrounding legend reads:
“FERDINANDVS D G R SI” — Ferdinand, by the Grace of God, King of Sicily and Jerusalem, affirming his wider territorial claims.
Struck in .986 fine gold and weighing approximately 3.52 grams, this ducat follows the weight standard of its Venetian counterpart, though it displays a much more detailed portraiture style — indicative of southern Italian Renaissance craftsmanship and the Aragonese dynastic pride.
Graded NGC MS64, this piece is tied for Finest Known, boasting exceptional luster, sharpness of strike, and nearly untouched fields. The high relief bust and well-defined shield are rarely seen this sharp, especially on coins of this era, where planchet irregularities and weak strikes are typical.
