Italy 1871 Vittorio Emanuele II 20 Lire Gold Coin
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold (standard historical coinage alloy)
Purity: 21.6K (90% Gold / 10% Copper), .900 Fine
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
21.6K (90% Gold / 10% Copper), .900 Fine
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (standard historical coinage alloy)
Weight
6.45 grams (0.1867 troy oz AGW)
Description
An authentic historical gold 20 Lire piece featuring the head of King Vittorio Emanuele II facing right. This coin represents the unification era of Italy and adheres to the standards of the Latin Monetary Union.
Key Features
Portrait of the first King of United Italy; '1871' date; beaded border; reeded edge; Latin Monetary Union weight standards.
Color & Finish
Pale warm yellow with characteristic historical 'coined' luster and visible surface patina/circulation toning.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Date: 1871; Inscriptions: VITTORIO EMANUELE II; Mint Mark: Likely 'M' (Milan) or 'R' (Rome) on reverse (not pictured).
Dimensions Estimate
21 mm diameter, ~1.3 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; reeded edge (grooved).
Chain & Links
Not applicable; circular planchet.
Craftsmanship Details
Struck via steam or hydraulic press; high-relief engraving by Giuseppe Ferraris; precision-consistent with 19th-century minting technology.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of legends; correctly formed serif fonts; lack of casting bubbles; patina consistent with 150+ year old gold; correct edge reeding.
Origin & Maker
Kingdom of Italy, Royal Mint (Regia Zecca)
Era & Period
Kingdom of Italy (Vittorio Emanuele II period, 1861-1878)
Age Estimate
Produced in 1871.
Cultural Significance
Symbolizes Italian unification (Risorgimento) and the economic stabilization of the new Kingdom through the Latin Monetary Union.
Condition Notes
Circulated condition; Moderate surface abrasions and small bag marks; visible wear on high points of portrait (temple and beard); Grade: VF (Very Fine) to XF (Extremely Fine).
Value Estimate
$450 - $550 USD (Based on current gold spot + 5-15% numismatic premium).
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish; store in a PVC-free numismatic capsule or acid-free paper flip to preserve original surface.
Similar Items
French 20 Francs (Marianne/Rooster), Swiss 20 Francs (Vreneli), Italian 20 Lire Umberto I.
Interesting Facts
Vittorio Emanuele II was the first king of a united Italy since the 6th century. His coins are the Italian equivalent of the French 'Napoleon' 20 Francs.