Ancient, British and World Coins. Tokens, Tickets and Passes. Historical and Art Medals. Numismatic Books. British and World Banknotes

Italy: Papal States, Urban VII, Castagna, 1590, copper medals (2), unsigned [by N. de Bonis], tonsured bust left in cope, revs. standing figures of Justice and Clemency, and seated figure holding tiara and cross, both 32mm (Lincoln 808, 825) [2]. Very fine, but second with small striking split at 1 o’clock (£50-70)

Urban VII (1521-90) was Pope for only 13 days [15-27 September 1590]; he died of malaria. His medals, even as restrikes, are scarce