From September 18 to 21, the prestigious galleries of Piguet Hôtel des Ventes in Geneva will showcase an extraordinary collection of medals once owned by the last two Kings of Italy, Vittorio Emanuele III and Umberto II, and carefully preserved until now by H.R.H. Princess Maria Gabriella of Savoy.
This remarkable collection, to be auctioned exclusively online from September 10 to 22, offers a journey through European history from the 17th to the 20th century, captured in hundreds of rare and commemorative medals linked to the House of Savoy and the Kingdoms of Italy and Sardinia. The collection, born from Vittorio Emanuele III’s scholarly passion for numismatics and enriched by his son Umberto II, is a true historical treasure. Vittorio Emanuele III, renowned for his expertise in coins and medals, amassed one of the world’s most significant collections, later expanded by Umberto II and safeguarded by Princess Maria Gabriella. Each medal serves as a testament to pivotal political, military, and dynastic events that shaped Europe.
Among the standout pieces is a rare 1707 medal from the Kingdom of Spain, struck in gold, silver, and bronze, celebrating the alliance between Philip V and Maria Luisa Gabriella of Savoy during the War of the Spanish Succession (lot 1023, estimated at CHF 6,000–8,000). The collection also honors Prince Eugene of Savoy-Carignano, a legendary military commander, with medals commemorating events like the 1706 Siege of Turin (lot 1120, estimated at CHF 8,000–12,000) and the 1709 capture of Lille (lot 1026, estimated at CHF 1,000–1,500). Beyond its European significance, the collection narrates the history of Italy and the central role of the House of Savoy. The medals, often minted in precious metals, highlight key moments such as the modernization of Piedmont, dynastic alliances, and the Unification of Italy, represented through the effigies of the four reigning kings from 1861 to 1946: Vittorio Emanuele II, Umberto I, Vittorio Emanuele III, and Umberto II.
Led by Bernard Piguet, director of Piguet Hôtel des Ventes, the auction is a unique opportunity for collectors and history enthusiasts. “Earning the trust of Europe’s great aristocratic families is a rare privilege,” Piguet stated, emphasizing the importance of finding new custodians for these historic objects. Among the lots, a solid gold medal from 2010, issued in a limited edition of just 20 pieces to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, stands out (lot 1003, estimated at CHF 80,000–120,000). This is an unmissable event for those passionate about history and numismatics, offering the chance to acquire unique pieces that encapsulate centuries of European and Italian grandeur.
