One of the most interesting topics in medieval coin collecting is the sequins of the Venetian Republic. Golden coins that have not changed the fineness, weight and design for more than 5 centuries. In 1284, the Venetian Republic began minting its own gold coins. On the obverse was depicted Christ in a halo, on the reverse - a kneeling doge, receiving a banner from the hands of St. Mark. Circular legend Sit tibi Christe datus, quem tu regis iste ducat (this duchy, over which you rule, is dedicated to you, Christ). This article presents the sequin of Doge Francesco Erizzo, who ruled from 1630-1646. 
Coming from a patrician family, an experienced diplomat and administrator rose to the heights of power through tragic circumstances. A plague raged in Venice, killing more than 40,000 Venetians that year. Among them was Francesco's predecessor, his maternal relative, who ruled for only 15 months. He recommended that Erizzo be chosen as the next Doge. 
Under his leadership, the republic was actively recovering from the epidemic. In 1637, an event of outstanding importance for world culture took place - the world's first opera house was opened. The Republic of Venice tried to maintain friendly relations with the Ottoman Empire, as this was of great importance for the Venetian trade. For the sake of maintaining peace in 1638, the Venetian Republic, after an incident involving the Venetian fleet, paid 250,000 ducats to the Ottoman Empire. But in 1644, after the capture of the Ottoman ship by the Knights of Malta with family members and close associates of the Sultan onboard, who were going on a pilgrimage to Mecca, it was no longer possible to resolve the conflict. The cooperation of the Knights of Malta, who captured the ship, and the Venetians on the island of Crete became known to the Sultan, who started a war with the aim of capturing Crete. 
Francesco Erizzo, despite his senior age at 79 years old, collected a fleet and personally wanted to lead the campaign. But his health didn't allow it. During the preparation of the campaign, he died. The coin sold on Violity
was a silent witness to the glorious and tragic events of the reign of Doge Francesco Erizzo.
Portrait of the Doge Francesco Erizzo, work by Bernardo Strozzi
Bernardo Strozzi, doge Francesco Erizzo, Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna
San Martino church- Tomb of Francesco Erizzo
Zecchino of Venice, Doge Francesco Erizzo (1630-1646)
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Zecchino of Venice, Doge Francesco Erizzo (1630-1646)
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Zecchino of Venice, Doge Francesco Erizzo (1630-1646)
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