controlling multiple 8x8 RGB LED matrix

MAX7219 available for $1.25 each from taydaelectronics.com
This diode
1N5817 Diode Schottky 1A 20V
wouldn't be too bad, 0.45V Vf.
One of the others might be better, they don't all have Vf listed, you can look them up at digikey.com or similar.