ITALY, Papal (Papal state). Gregory XVI. 1831-1846. AR Scudo (37.5mm, 26.36 g, 12h). Bologna mint. Dated 1831 B. Near EF.

Electronic Auction 546
Lot: 635. Estimated: $ 100

World, Silver

Sold For $ 375. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

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ITALY, Papal (Papal state). Gregory XVI. 1831-1846. AR Scudo (37.5mm, 26.36 g, 12h). Bologna mint. Dated 1831 B. Bust left, wearing zucchetto and mozzetta / Mary and Joseph, holding pair of turtledoves, presenting the infant Christ to Anna and Simeon in the temple. Muntoni 26; Berman 3274; Davenport 191; KM 1315.1. Iridescent toning, lustrous, marks. Near EF.

From the CJR Collection.

The reverse of this issue illustrates the scene found in the Gospel of Luke 2: 21-39. In this passage, Mary and Joseph travel to the temple in Jerusalem for three ceremonial purposes: the circumcision of the male child on the eighth day (Leviticus 12: 3), the ceremonial purification of the mother after giving birth (Leviticus 12), and the ceremonial redemption of the firstborn (Exodus 13:12-13). The purification ceremony required an offering of a lamb. In the case of an impoverished couple, a pair of turtledoves or young pigeons was an acceptable substitute. As recounted in Luke’s Gospel, Mary and Joseph offered the latter sacrifice, evidenced here by Joseph carrying a basket with two small birds. During their visit to the temple, Luke recounts that two individuals met them to adore the child and gave prophecies concerning him. These two figures, Anna and Simeon also feature in this well-designed scene.

Closing Date and Time: 13 September 2023 at 13:31:20 ET.

All winning bids are subject to an 20% buyer’s fee.