1570 Venetian Cyprus Bisante (Siege of Famagusta)

1570 Venetian Cyprus Bisante Siege of Famagusta MB#11 Copper

Description:

Rare 1570 Venetian Cyprus Bisante struck during the desperate Ottoman Siege of Famagusta — one of the last major Venetian holdings on the island. These emergency copper coins were minted to pay troops and buy provisions when traditional silver was exhausted.

Obverse: Winged Lion of St. Mark or standing saintly figure, partial legends including “PRO REGNI CYPRI…”.

Reverse: Multi-line inscription “VENETORVM FIDES INVIOLABILIS BISANTE” with date and symbols.

Specifications:

•  Denomination: Bisante (emergency siege coin)

•  Composition: Copper

•  Weight: ~2.46–4 grams range (typical for type)

•  Diameter: ~27 mm

•  Grade/Condition: Worn circulated example with readable legends for the type. Honest siege-era patina.

Historical Context (The Gory Details):

In the summer of 1570, the Ottoman Empire invaded Cyprus, quickly taking Nicosia. Famagusta held out in a brutal year-long siege. As supplies ran low, the Venetians struck these crude copper coins to keep the garrison paid and fed. The city finally fell in August 1571. Commander Marcantonio Bragadin suffered a horrific fate — he was flayed alive, and his stuffed skin was sent as a trophy to the Sultan. This coin is a direct survivor from one of the Mediterranean’s most infamous sieges.

A powerful Renaissance-era artifact for Venetian, Cypriot, or military history collectors. This is an excellent deal at this price point and I think it will make someone very happy!

Coin pictured is the exact one you will receive.