Italy - Partenopean or Napolitana Republic 1799

October 2024

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This rare piece is part of my series related to the French Revolution inspired revolutions among the Italian States. In this case the short lived Parthenopean Republic of Naples, 12 Carlini, the highest denomination and RARE. The Republic lasted just a little over 140 days. Obverse legend is: 'REPUBBLICA NAPOLITANA' Liberty appears supporting a fasces, w/axe and holds spear topped with a Liberty Cap. The reverse legend around is 'ANNO SETTIMO DELLA LIBERTA.' which equates to 'Year AN7 (1799) of Liberty'. Inner wreath legend is: 'CAR/LINI/DODI/CI', or 12 Carlini, without the ZN mintmark (rare). Edge is engrailed with what appears to be slashed thru circles. The history of the revolution here is quite brutal, short, and involved the British Navy.
The Parthenopean Republic (Italian: Repubblica Parthenopea) was a semi-autonomous Republic located within the Kingdom of Naples and supported by the French First Republic. The republic emerged during the French Revolutionary War after King Ferdinand IV fled before advancing French troops. The republic existed from 21 January to 13 June 1799, collapsing when Ferdinand returned to restore monarchial authority and forcibly subdued republican activities.
Italy, Naples, Parthenopean Republic, silver 12 Carlini, ANNO SETTIMO (1799), REPUBBLICA – NAPOLITANA, standing figure of Liberty holding Liberty cap on staff in r. hand and fasces in l., rev. CARLINI DODICI, value within wreath (KM.C84.2; Dav.1410; Pag.1)