Gold-Plated Italian 200 Lire Commemorative Coin (Lega Navale Italiana 1897-1997)
Coin (Commemorative/Token in Jewelry context) · Yellow Gold (surface plating)
Purity: Likely Gold-Plated (Vermeil or Electroplated). Standard Italian 200 Lire circulating coins were minted in Bronzital (an aluminum-bronze alloy), not solid gold.
Type
Coin (Commemorative/Token in Jewelry context)
Purity
Likely Gold-Plated (Vermeil or Electroplated). Standard Italian 200 Lire circulating coins were minted in Bronzital (an aluminum-bronze alloy), not solid gold.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (surface plating)
Weight
5.0 grams (Standard weight for this 200 Lire issue)
Description
This item is a 1997 Italian 200 Lire coin, minted to commemorate the Centennial of the Lega Navale Italiana (Italian Naval League). It features a stylized anchor and sailing vessel mast. While the coin appears gold, this specific issue was originally produced in Bronzital for general circulation. This particular specimen has likely been gold-plated for use in jewelry (such as a pendant) or as a collector's souvenir/token.
Key Features
Centennial dates 1897-1997; Central emblem of the Italian Naval League; Bronze-colored base metal visible under plating in wear areas.
Color & Finish
High-luster golden yellow with a satin-to-polished finish. Shows characteristic warmth of gold plating over a base metal core.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Mint mark 'R' (Rome Mint); Dates '1897' and '1997'; Denomination '200 LIRE'; Inscriptions: 'LEGA NAVALE ITALIANA'
Dimensions Estimate
24.0 mm in diameter; 1.64 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (smooth circular edge)
Chain & Links
Reeded edge (milled edge typical of Italian coinage)
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck die work by the Italian Mint. The design by Eugenio Driutti shows high-relief detail in the mast and rigging.
Authentication Indicators
The 'R' mint mark and 200 Lire denomination are diagnostic for the Bronzital circulating coin. There is no official gold bullion version of this denomination; any 'gold' appearance is a result of aftermarket plating.
Origin & Maker
Italy (Istituto Poligrafico e Zecca dello Stato - Rome Mint)
Era & Period
Contemporary (Late 20th Century); Design celebrates Century of Naval League
Age Estimate
Minted in 1997
Cultural Significance
Represents Italy's deep maritime heritage and the transition period of Italian currency shortly before the adoption of the Euro in 2002.
Condition Notes
Very Good (Circulated/Post-mint treatment). Surface shows minor micro-scratches and fingerprint oils; plating appears intact but reflects a non-standard mint luster.
Value Estimate
Nominal value ($1 - $5 USD). The value lies in its novelty/historical interest rather than gold content, as the plating is micro-thin and the base metal has no precious metal value.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid abrasive cleaners which will strip the thin gold plating. Use a soft microfiber cloth. Keep away from humidity to prevent oxidation of the base metal core.
Similar Items
Standard Bronzital 1997 200 Lire; 500 Lire Bimetallic coins; sovereign gold coins (which are solid 22K gold, unlike this item).
Interesting Facts
The Lega Navale Italiana was founded in La Spezia in 1897 to spread awareness of maritime issues and protect the marine environment.