Montenegro 720. CNI 104. Paolucci II 60. Extremely rare.

Fascinating specimen.

q.SPL.

Sebastiano Venier was a leading figure in Venetian politics and military campaigns in the Levant, distinguishing himself to the point of attaining the prestigious office of Procurator of San Marco. His role in the Battle of Lepanto was crucial; during the battle, he suffered a serious wound that permanently impaired his ability to walk. His return to Venice was marked by unprecedented outpourings of enthusiasm, and the Republic quickly elected him Doge with unanimous support.

The osella commemorates the feat of Lepanto through a rich symbolic language: Venier is depicted holding a palm branch, an emblem of concord, at the moment in which an angel awards him the doge's horn in recognition of the triumph achieved.

The reverse recalls the solemn religious ceremony of thanksgiving held on July 21, 1577, which marked the end of a long plague epidemic, undoubtedly one of the most dramatic periods the city had experienced. The text of the legend echoes a verse from the Te Deum, "Be merciful to you, Lord, above us," a plea for mercy linked to the end of the calamity.

This charming osella is also known for having the oldest view of the city depicted on a coin: several galleys are docked at the pier in the small square; in the square, on the side opposite the basilica, you can see the Sansovino dome of the church demolished to make way for the Procuratie.