Set of 3 Italian 20 Lire Gold Coins (Kingdom of Sardinia & Kingdom of Italy, 1841-1863)
Coin (Numismatic, Bullion) · Yellow Gold (Classic 19th-century European monetary alloy with slight reddish warmth from copper content)
Purity: 21.6K (900/1000 fineness). This means the coins consist of 90% pure gold and 10% copper alloy for durability.
Type
Coin (Numismatic, Bullion)
Purity
21.6K (900/1000 fineness). This means the coins consist of 90% pure gold and 10% copper alloy for durability.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Classic 19th-century European monetary alloy with slight reddish warmth from copper content)
Weight
6.45 grams each (total of approximately 19.35 grams for the set). Each 20 Lire coin contains 0.1867 troy oz of actual gold weight (AGW).
Description
An exceptional numismatic trio representing the birth of the Italian nation. The set includes a rare Carlo Alberto 20 Lire (1841), a Vittorio Emanuele II as King of Sardinia (1856), and a post-unification Vittorio Emanuele II King of Italy (1863). These coins served as the backbone of the Italian economy during the mid-1800s and were minted to the strict standards of the Latin Monetary Union.
Key Features
Distinctive portraits showing the evolution of royal facial hair and titles; 'CAR. ALBERTUS' vs 'VICTORIUS EMMANUEL II'. The 1861-1870 series reflects the newly unified Kingdom of Italy.
Color & Finish
Deep lustrous yellow with natural champagne patina. The surfaces show typical circulation luster and slight toning in the recessed areas around the lettering.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not hallmarked like jewelry; identified by mint marks. Includes '1841' (Carlo Alberto), '1856' (Vittorio Emanuele II - Sardinia), and '1863' (Vittorio Emanuele II - Italy). Mint marks usually appear below the neck or on the reverse (not shown).
Dimensions Estimate
21 mm diameter and 1.3 mm thickness per coin. This is the standard size for the Latin Monetary Union 20-unit denomination.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. These are struck bullion/currency coins.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; coins feature reeded (milled) edges to prevent 'clipping' or shaving of the gold metal.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; features a reeded edge for security and authenticity.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck using screw presses or steam presses. Features fine engraving by masters like Giuseppe Galeazzi and Ferraris (noted under the neck of the 1863 piece).
Authentication Indicators
Weight (should be exactly 6.45g), 21mm diameter, specific gravity of 17.2, and the high-relief sharpness of the portraits. The lettering 'D.G. REX SARD. CYP. ET HIER.' is crisp and correctly spaced.
Origin & Maker
Italy (Kingdom of Sardinia and Kingdom of Italy). Likely struck at the Turin or Milan mints.
Era & Period
Mid-19th Century (Risorgimento period). Spans the transition from the Kingdom of Sardinia (House of Savoy) to the Unification of Italy.
Age Estimate
Dated 1841, 1856, and 1863. The coins are approximately 160 to 183 years old.
Cultural Significance
These coins are symbols of the 'Risorgimento', the political and social movement that consolidated different states of the Italian peninsula into the single state of Italy in the 19th century.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F). Visible high-point wear on the hair and beards. Some contact marks and surface scratches consistent with historical circulation. No major gouges or rim dents visible.
Value Estimate
Primarily driven by gold melt value (approx. $450-$500 per coin) with a numismatic premium of 10-25% depending on the specific mint year and rarity.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish, as this destroys numismatic value. Store in PVC-free archival flips or capsules. Handle by the edges only to avoid transfer of skin oils.
Similar Items
French 20 Francs (Napoleon III), Swiss 20 Francs (Vreneli), and Belgian 20 Francs (Leopold II). All share the same 6.45g 90% gold standard.
Interesting Facts
The 20 Lire was the Italian equivalent of the French 20 Franc Napoleon and was interchangeable across most of Europe under the Latin Monetary Union (LMU) agreement.