1595-1605 Venice 1z Marino Grimani NGC MS64

Struck during the reign of Doge Marino Grimani, this 1595–1605 Venice Zecchino (1 Z), graded NGC MS64, represents the peak of Venetian maritime wealth and artistic refinement during the late Renaissance. The Venetian zecchino—globally renowned for its purity and beauty—was a trusted gold trade coin accepted across the Mediterranean world.

Obverse: Depicts St. Mark, the patron saint of Venice, handing a cross-staff to the kneeling Doge Grimani, with the legend S M VENET MARIN GRIM encircling the sacred exchange. The composition reflects divine endorsement of temporal power, central to the Venetian political-religious ethos.

Reverse: Features Christ standing within a mandorla of stars, holding the Gospels and raising his right hand in benediction. The surrounding legend SIT T XPE DAT QTV REGIS ISTE DVCAT translates to "May Christ bless this Ducat, you who rule," a prayer-like affirmation of the coin's sanctity.

Graded MS64, this zecchino exhibits exceptional preservation, with fully struck figures, gleaming luster, and almost no signs of wear. The razor-sharp legends and symmetrical flan make it one of the finest examples from the Grimani era. As a classic piece of Venetian gold, it is highly prized by collectors of Italian Renaissance coinage and early international trade currency.

3.49g