Vittorio Emanuele II 1871 Italian Gold Lira (Likely 20 Lire)
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold (Alloyed with copper, typical of 19th-century European coinage)
Purity: 900 Fineness (21.6K). This indicates 90% pure gold and 10% copper alloy for durability.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
900 Fineness (21.6K). This indicates 90% pure gold and 10% copper alloy for durability.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Alloyed with copper, typical of 19th-century European coinage)
Weight
6.45 grams (Standard for the 20 Lire denomination with 5.81 grams of fine gold content)
Description
An authentic 1871 gold circulating coin featuring the profile of Vittorio Emanuele II, the first king of a united Italy. The obverse depicts the King facing right with a beard and mustache, a symbol of Italian Risorgimento power.
Key Features
Sought after 'Marengo' size; high relief portrait of the King; precise 19th-century Italian engraving
Color & Finish
Classic pale rose-yellow gold with a matte, circulated surface finish and authentic age-related toning
Hallmarks & Stamps
VITTORIO EMANUELE II (Obverse legend), 1871 (Date), Mint Mark (Likely 'M' for Milan or 'R' for Rome on the reverse, not visible)
Dimensions Estimate
21mm Diameter with a thickness of approximately 1.3mm
Gemstones & Inlays
None; historical numismatic engraving only
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge for anti-counterfeiting security and weight verification
Chain & Links
N/A - Solid struck coin; edge is reeded (vertical ridges)
Craftsmanship Details
Struck by steam-powered coinage press; features high detail in the hair and beard consistent with royal mint standards of the period.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font style for 1871; distinct reeding; lack of casting bubbles; characteristic copper-heavy 90% gold tone.
Origin & Maker
Kingdom of Italy; likely the Milan or Rome Mint
Era & Period
Kingdom of Italy (1861-1946); Produced during the Unification period
Age Estimate
Struck in 1871; approximately 152 years old
Cultural Significance
Represents the unification of Italy; Vittorio Emanuele II is known as 'Padre della Patria' (Father of the Fatherland).
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) to Fine (F). Visible circulation wear on high points (hair, beard), minor surface scuffs, and softened rim beads.
Value Estimate
Based on gold spot price (~$450 melt) plus a 10-20% numismatic/collector premium depending on reverse condition.
Care & Maintenance
Do not polish or clean chemically as it destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free plastic capsule.
Similar Items
French 20 Francs (Napoleon), Swiss 20 Vreneli, Belgian 20 Francs (Leopold II)
Interesting Facts
Commonly referred to as a 'Marengo' in Italy, following the tradition of Napoleonic gold coinage weights.