ITALY. Modena. 2 Scudi dOro, ND (1629-58). Francesco I dEste. NGC AU-55.27.4mm x 25.4mm; 6.36 gms. cf. Fr-679; CNI-199 (pl. XX, 9). Obverse: FRAN I MV REG E C DVX VIII, bareheaded, draped, and armored bust left; Reverse: AVERTISTI IRAM INDIGACIN (sic), the Virgin Mary seated left, with Holy Infant seated to left. An exceptionally pleasing and alluring example, this strongVERY /strongstrongRARE /strongspecimen was struck on a somewhat oblong planchet, but nevertheless does not lack any charm as a result. An important relic from the wealthy ruling Este family, whose last scion in the 19th century would make Austrian Archduke Franz Ferdinand his heir.Ex: Stacks (1/2008) Lot # 3005.