Ancient, British and World Coins, Historical Medals and Tokens

Italy, Antonio Magliabecchi, bronze portrait medal by Maria Antonio Gennaro, draped bust right, reverse Magliabecchi seated reading under a tree, figure representing a Greek philosopher in the distance, 45mm (BDM V, p.240 – illustr.). Good extremely fine and of very attractive colour (£60-80)

Antonio Magliabecchi (1633-1714), bibliophile and librarian to the Grand Duke of Tuscany, born in Florence. His erudition was considerable, but his conceit and intolerance caused many bitter quarrels.