Kingdom of Italy Vittorio Emanuele II 20 Lire Gold Coin (1876)
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold with reddish copper toning
Purity: 21.6K / .900 Fine Gold (90% Gold, 10% Copper)
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
21.6K / .900 Fine Gold (90% Gold, 10% Copper)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold with reddish copper toning
Weight
6.45 grams (approx. 0.1867 troy oz AGW)
Description
A historic 21.6-carat gold coin featuring the profile of the first King of a united Italy. This piece represents the monetary standards of the Latin Monetary Union. The obverse depicts the King facing right with his signature beard and mustache, while the reverse (not visible) typically features the Savoy coat of arms within a laurel wreath.
Key Features
Portrait of Vittorio Emanuele II, Latin Monetary Union specification, and the 1876 date stamp.
Color & Finish
Deep warm yellow with significant dark brown-grey patina and surface oxidation
Hallmarks & Stamps
Obverse: 'VITTORIO EMANUELE II', '1876', and 'FERRARIS' (Engraver mark)
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of 21mm, Thickness of 1.3mm
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge for security and counterfeit prevention
Chain & Links
Standard reeded edge (vertical lines along the rim)
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-struck coin with high-relief neoclassical portraiture and distinctive beaded border.
Authentication Indicators
Authentic strike quality, distinct 'FERRARIS' signature, correct date font, and specific wear patterns consistent with circulation.
Origin & Maker
Kingdom of Italy, struck at the Rome Mint (indicated by stylized 'R')
Era & Period
Unification of Italy / 19th Century Monarchy (Late Victorian equivalent)
Age Estimate
Dated 1876; 148 years old
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Father of the Fatherland' (Padre della Patria) and the unification of various Italian states into one kingdom.
Condition Notes
Very Fine (VF) to Extremely Fine (XF) details, but heavily toned/tarnished. Visible surface scratches and significant darkening suggest long-term exposure to air or poor storage.
Value Estimate
Primarily based on melt value (~$450-$500 USD) plus a small numismatic premium of 5-10% depending on gold spot prices.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish; numismatic value is destroyed by chemical cleaning. Store in an acid-free PVC-free holder.
Similar Items
20 French Francs (Napoleon/Ceres), 20 Swiss Francs (Vreneli), or 20 Belgian Francs.
Interesting Facts
This coin was part of the Latin Monetary Union (LMU), a 19th-century attempt to unify European currencies similar to the modern Euro.