Description

The "Italian Excellence" series is dedicated to traditional Italian companies. This coin set takes enthusiasts on an enthralling and fervent journey through the legacy of Borgo Panigale's "red." This visual narrative delves into the narrative of Italian motorcycling, commencing with the splendor of the historic Ducati facility in Borgo Panigale, established in 1936. It showcases the iconic models of the Bolognese brand: from the pioneering Cucciolo of 1949, the motorcycle that heralded the beginning of Ducati's story, to the timeless design marvel, the 916, and reaching its zenith with the Panigale, a seamless fusion of performance and sophistication. A heartfelt tribute to the rich heritage of Italian motorcycling.

Ducati, headquartered in Bologna, Italy, is a renowned motorcycle manufacturer under the ownership of Lamborghini, a subsidiary of Audi, which is in turn owned by the Volkswagen Group. The company's origins trace back to 1926 when Antonio Cavalieri Ducati and his sons founded Società Scientifica Radiobrevetti Ducati (SSR Ducati) in Bologna. Initially producing radio components, their success led to the establishment of a new factory in 1935. Despite wartime challenges, Ducati persevered, even after their factory was destroyed in 1944 during World War II.

Post-war, Ducati ventured into motorcycles, with their first offering, the Cucciolo-based bike, launched in collaboration with SIATA in 1950. Over the years, Ducati gained recognition for its high-performance motorcycles, notably introducing the Mach 1 in the 1960s and pioneering the desmodromic valve design in 1973. Ownership changes followed, including Cagiva's acquisition in 1985 and subsequent sale to Texas Pacific Group in 1996. In 2012, Audi's acquisition of Ducati further solidified its position in the automotive world. Known for its powerful V-twin engines and innovative designs like the trellis frame, Ducati continues to make waves in the motorcycle industry.

Design: Antonio Vecchio