Kingdom of Italy 20 Lire Vittorio Emanuele II Gold Coin (1871)
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold (classic warm hue with reddish copper-undertones typical of 19th-century European coinage)
Purity: 21.6K (900/1000 fineness); 90% pure gold, 10% copper alloy for durability
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
21.6K (900/1000 fineness); 90% pure gold, 10% copper alloy for durability
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (classic warm hue with reddish copper-undertones typical of 19th-century European coinage)
Weight
6.45 grams (approx. 0.1867 troy oz AGW - Actual Gold Weight)
Description
An authentic 1871 gold 20 Lire coin featuring the bare-headed portrait of Vittorio Emanuele II, the first King of a united Italy. This piece is a classic example of the Latin Monetary Union standard, minted to facilitate trade across Europe. The obverse depicts the King facing right, surrounded by his name and title, while the reverse (not shown) traditionally bears the Savoy coat of arms within a laurel wreath.
Key Features
Portrait of Vittorio Emanuele II, '1871' date, beaded border, and historical Latin Monetary Union weight specifications
Color & Finish
Deep yellow with a faint orange/reddish patina; circulating finish with visible surface abrasions and luster typical of historical bullion
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not applicable as jewelry stamps, but features official mint text: 'VITTORIO EMANUELE II' and date '1871'. A mint mark (typically 'M' for Milan or 'R' for Rome) would be on the reverse.
Dimensions Estimate
21.0 mm diameter; 1.3 mm thickness (standard specifications)
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
None; features a reeded (milled) edge for security and to prevent metal clipping
Chain & Links
Not applicable; solid minted planchet with a flat, circular profile and reeded edge
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck via steam or hydraulic press; features high-relief engraving and precise edge reeding characteristic of late 19th-century industrial minting.
Authentication Indicators
Sharpness of the lettering, correct weight-to-diameter ratio, and distinctive 90% gold color. Note: Silver-colored appearance in certain lighting may suggest a counterfeit or a different metal, but '1871 20 Lire' is historically a gold denomination.
Origin & Maker
Kingdom of Italy; likely struck at the Milan (M) or Rome (R) Mint
Era & Period
Unification of Italy / 19th Century (Risorgimento era)
Age Estimate
Dated 1871; approximately 152 years old
Cultural Significance
Represents the political unification of the Italian states into a single Kingdom and the economic modernization of 19th-century Europe.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Fine (VG-F) circulating condition. Visible surface scratches, minor rim nicks, and wear on high points of the hair and beard. No major gouges or signs of ex-jewelry usage (no mounting solder).
Value Estimate
Primarily valued for its gold melt (~$450-$500 USD based on spot), with a small numismatic premium for the specific 1871 date totaling approx. $520-$575 USD depending on the mint mark.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as this destroys numismatic value. Store in an acid-free PVC-free plastic flip or a specialized coin capsule to prevent further scratching.
Similar Items
French 20 Francs (Napoleon III), Swiss 20 Vreneli, and Austrian 8 Florins—all of which share the same weight and gold purity specifications.
Interesting Facts
Vittorio Emanuele II is known as 'Padre della Patria' (Father of the Fatherland). This coin was part of the Latin Monetary Union which standardized gold coins across France, Italy, Belgium, and Switzerland.