Strada collection - III part - NAPLES Charles I of Anjou (...

NAPLES Charles I of Anjou (1266-1285) Golden Salutation - MIR 18 AU (g 4.37) RR Charles I of Anjou introduced a memorable new type of coinage with the Golden Salutation. He employed the staff of the mints of Messina and Brindisi, which had also produced the no less famous Augustalis of Frederick II. King Charles is said to have personally examined the first draft images of the new coin. He was greatly impressed by the design of his artist Giovanni Fortino, although the two did not always agree on other points, as the sources relate. The reverse of the coin shows the biblical scene of the Annunciation: the Archangel Gabriel appears to the Virgin Mary and announces to her that she will have a son-Jesus Christ. Magnificent specimen, very high quality for the type. Perfectly centered and well minted roundel, with excellent freshness and virtually intact reliefs. Minimal edge mark.