1640 Gold 4 Scudi D’Oro PCGS MS64

Struck at the Turin (Torino) Mint in 1640, this Gold 4 Scudi d’Oro, graded PCGS MS64, is a magnificent product of the Duchy of Savoy during the early reign of Carlo Emanuele II, issued under the regency of his mother, Maria Cristina of France. The coin reflects the dynastic stability and Franco-Italian ties during a period of political guardianship, and stands as one of the finest-preserved examples of 17th-century Piedmontese gold.

Obverse: Bears the Latin legend CHR FRAN CAR EMAN DVCES SAB, with jugate, draped busts of Carlo Emanuele II (as a child) and his mother Cristina, both facing right. Cristina’s prominent placement symbolizes her political authority as regent during her son’s minority. Their finely engraved profiles demonstrate Italian late-Renaissance artistry.

Reverse: Displays the crowned and ornately garnished coat-of-arms of the House of Savoy with the legend P P PEDEMON REGES CYPRI—asserting the dynasty’s claim as Kings of Cyprus, a traditional titular honor. The detailed heraldry and classical balance elevate the design to one of regal sophistication.

This PCGS MS64 specimen is the highest-graded known for the type. It exhibits frosty luster with minimal contact marks, glowing with a deep golden hue interspersed with orange highlights from original toning. Though a slight softness in the strike is visible—typical for the issue—it is visually negligible. With unmatched preservation and historical depth, this coin is a trophy piece for connoisseurs of Italian nobility, dynastic coinage, or high-grade early modern European gold.