Philip II of Spain

Philip II of Spain, Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, gold Scudo [Scudo d'oro], undated, by Giovan Battista Ravaschieri, bare head right, monogram behind, legend with English title, PHILIP R ANG FRA NEAP P HIS, rev., crowned and garnished oval shield of arms, HISPANI PRINCEP, 23mm; 3.35g (MI 69/14; Fr. 836a; P & R 1). A most pleasing example, much as struck, with an excellent portrait, nearly extremely fine and very rare.

Giovan Battista Ravaschieri, Mint-director at Naples (1525-1560). MI lists six coins of Philip II on account of his English title and because some earlier references have them listed as medals.

Provenance: Ex. Numismatica Ars Classica Auction, 4 December, 2012 (lot 719); ex Hispanic Society of America.