ITALY. Florence. Francesco Nerli, il Giovane, Metropolitan Archibishop of Florence and Cardinal, 1636-1670-1673-1708. Medal (Bronze, 43 mm, 37.49 g, 12 h), struck, by G. Hamerani (1647-1705), on Nerli's consecration as Cardinal-Priest of San Matteo in Merulana, a titular church in Rome, undated but 1673. FRANC S E R PRESB CARD NERLIVS Mantled bust of Nerli to right, wearing a biretta; on the truncation, IO:HAMERANVS•F:. Rev. VIM•HAVSIT•LVCIS (=he drew strength from the light) Tree-like coral rising from the sea: on the left rising sun and clouds, with stars to right; below, rocks, one baring the arms of Nerli. Bargello 639 (but as Francesco Nerli, il Vecchio). Börner 1283. Rare. Beautifully toned and most attractive . Good extremely fine.

From the collection of a Bon Vivant.

This medal has sometimes been attributed to Francesco Nerli il Vecchio (1594-1650-1670), but the miniature coat of arms on the reverse proves that it was struck in honour of his younger relative.