Italian 200 Lire Moneta Numismatic Gold Fantasy Strike or Repro (Repubblica Italiana)
Coin (Numismatic/Exonumia/Jewelry Piece) · Yellow Gold (rich high-karat hue consistent with Mediterranean jewelry standards)
Purity: Typically 18K (750) or 22K (916) if a jewelry 'fantasy strike'; 75% to 91.6% gold content. Note: Standard circulation 200 Lire are Bronze (Bronzital)
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Exonumia/Jewelry Piece)
Purity
Typically 18K (750) or 22K (916) if a jewelry 'fantasy strike'; 75% to 91.6% gold content. Note: Standard circulation 200 Lire are Bronze (Bronzital)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (rich high-karat hue consistent with Mediterranean jewelry standards)
Weight
Estimated 5.0 - 8.0 grams depending on thickness/karat (Solid construction)
Description
An exquisite yellow gold rendition of the iconic Italian 200 Lire coin. Featuring the classically styled head of a woman facing right, symbolizing the Republic, surrounded by the legend 'REPVBBLICA ITALIANA'. This item is a luxury interpretation of common currency, often commissioned by Italian goldsmiths for high-end jewelry use or as store-of-value collectibles.
Key Features
High-relief profile, 'P. VALLUCCI' engraver's mark, 'REPVBBLICA ITALIANA' text in Roman-style typography
Color & Finish
Deep lustrous yellow; satin-finish fields with high-relief matte portrait; polished rim
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped '750' or '18K' on the reverse or edge if cast for jewelry; 'REPVBBLICA ITALIANA' and 'P. GALLUCCI' artist signature visible on obverse
Dimensions Estimate
24mm diameter (Standard 200 Lire size); Medium thickness (~1.6mm)
Gemstones & Inlays
None; features a classic numismatic sculptural relief of a female head representing the Italian Republic
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; reeded or smooth coin edge
Chain & Links
Standard reeded edge common to Italian minting styles; provides grip and prevents clipping
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-struck; excellent detail in the flowing hair and facial profile; clean letter separation
Authentication Indicators
Color depth suggests high karat; relief sharpness indicates a struck piece rather than a crude cast; lack of oxidation consistent with solid gold
Origin & Maker
Italy; Design by Mario Vallucci (signature visible as P. VALLUCCI/GALLUCCI)
Era & Period
Contemporary (Modern era design, original motif debuted in 1977)
Age Estimate
Likely 1980s-2000s; based on the popularity of gold-strike currency as pendants in Italy
Cultural Significance
Represents the Lira era of Italy (pre-Euro); symbols of national identity and the mid-century Italian economic miracle
Condition Notes
Very Good/Excellent (XF-AU equivalent); minor bag marks on fields, no significant wear on the hair strands of the portrait
Value Estimate
Primarily melt value (Spot price x weight x purity) plus a 10-20% craftsmanship premium as a jewelry-grade coin
Care & Maintenance
Avoid acidic cleaners; use a soft microfiber cloth; store in a protective air-tight capsule or velvet-lined box to prevent scratching
Similar Items
Gold Sovereign, 20 Lira Umberto I Gold Coin (official currency), or Swarovski gold-plated 200 Lire tokens
Interesting Facts
The standard 200 Lire was the first Italian coin to feature Braille for the blind; gold versions are technically 'fantasy strikes' as the mint did not issue gold 200 Lire for circulation