Numismatic

1676-89 Papal States Silver Scudo Innocent XI AU-55 NGC

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During the late seventeenth century, the Papal States produced a remarkable silver coinage that reflected both the spiritual authority and temporal power of the Vatican. This silver scudo, minted during the pontificate of Pope Innocent XI between 1676 and 1689, offers a direct window into an era of significant internal reform within the Catholic Church. The obverse of this impressive silver coin displays the official heraldic arms of Pope Innocent XI. On the reverse, a detailed laurel wreath encircles a powerful Latin inscription: NON PRODERVNT IN DIE VLTIONIS. This phrase, translating to 'they shall not profit in the day of wrath,' served as a stern moral reminder to all who handled the currency. Struck in 0.917 fine silver with a precious metal content of 0.8754 troy ounces, this piece survived the centuries with an About Uncirculated grading of AU 55. It stands as a fascinating monument to seventeenth-century Italian minting and papal history.