A rare Irish Free State Pattern Florin dating from 1927 that was discovered in an antiques market in Italy over 40 years ago by an Italian collector could fetch up to £10,000 when it is offered at Noonans Mayfair in a sale of Coins, Historical Medals and Numismatic Books on Thursday, May 29, 2025.

As Oliver Hepburn, Coin Specialist at Noonans explained: "This rare copper florin was designed by Publio Morbiducci (28 August 1889 - 31 March 1963). He was born in Rome and was a leading Italian sculptor, medalist and painter in the early and mid-1900s. Morbiducci was among a group of international artists who were asked to submit designs for Ireland's first coinage. The competition was won by the British engraver Percy Metcalfe."

He continues: "It is very exciting that this particular example was discovered in a market in Morbiducci's home country, and these patterns only come up for auction once in a blue moon. Fewer than a dozen examples have sold in the last 20 years. This penny was never put into circulation and obviously the dealer in the market, didn't quite appreciate its rarity. It is decorated with a harp on one side and a salmon on the other and officially only two sets were minted for presentation to the Irish Currency Commission. However, after the competition, it is thought that Morbiducci minted several more sets for private use, though exact figures are unknown."