Siege of Mantua - 1799 - Museum Gallery

April 2024

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Part of the French Revolutionary Wars. Napoleon had occupied Mantua in northern Italy during the first siege in 1797. Now the Austrians were back with 40k troops vs the French forces of 10k holding Mantua.
The Siege of Mantua (1799) was a four-month effort by the Austrian army to regain a presence in northern Italy after being excluded from that region by Napoleon Bonaparte through the successful French Siege of Mantua in 1797. In April 1799, the Austrians placed a military blockade around Mantua as part of the War of the Second Coalition with the intent of withering the French by attrition. While the diminishing food supplies and losses weakened the French army, the Austrians received reinforcements and attacked on 4 July 1799. By the end of the month, the French agreed to surrender.
Therefore, this coin was crudely cast of brass and lead during the very short period of July 1799 (AN VII). This shows exceptional execution and preservation, these were also cast in 2 & 5 Soldo denominations. Obverse has a fasces topped with a Liberty Cap; legend is: ASSEDIO. D.-I. MANTOVA. Reverse legend is UN SOLDO DI MILAN.