Kingdom of Italy 5 Lire Silver Coin (Umberto I/Vittorio Emanuele II)
Coin (Numismatic/Currency) · None. The item is silver with a natural metallic grey/white oxidation.
Purity: 0% (Non-gold). This is a 900 fine silver coin (90% silver, 10% copper). It does not contain gold.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Currency)
Purity
0% (Non-gold). This is a 900 fine silver coin (90% silver, 10% copper). It does not contain gold.
Gold Type
None. The item is silver with a natural metallic grey/white oxidation.
Weight
25.00 grams (standard for late 19th/early 20th century Italian 5 Lire coins).
Description
An authentic silver 5 Lire coin from the Kingdom of Italy featuring the crowned coat of arms of Savoy, surrounded by a laurel and oak wreath, symbolizing national unity and strength.
Key Features
Crowned shield of Savoy, laurel wreath, 'REGNO D'ITALIA' lettering, and 'L. 5' denomination value.
Color & Finish
Silver-grey with a dull matte patina and signs of environmental toning; finish is circulated (non-reflective).
Hallmarks & Stamps
Labeled 'REGNO D'ITALIA' (Kingdom of Italy), 'L. 5' (5 Lire denomination), and the mint mark 'R' (Rome) or 'M' (Milan) typically found on the reverse.
Dimensions Estimate
37 mm diameter, approximately 2.5 mm thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. Standard minted coinage.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; reeded edge design for anti-counterfeiting.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. Coin features a reeded (milled) edge.
Craftsmanship Details
Struck with high-pressure dies; features high-relief heraldic details on the shield and crown.
Authentication Indicators
Correct font style for 19th c. Italian minting, distinct reeded edge, and standard 37mm diameter ratio.
Origin & Maker
Kingdom of Italy, struck at the Mint of Rome or Milan.
Era & Period
Late 19th Century Kingdom of Italy (Savoy Dynasty).
Age Estimate
Circa 1870-1879 (Vittorio Emanuele II) or 1878-1879 (Umberto I) based on the coat of arms style.
Cultural Significance
Represents the unification era of Italy (Risorgimento) and the reign of the House of Savoy.
Condition Notes
Circulated/Fine to Very Fine. Notable surface wear, minor scratches, and significant tarnish/dirt build-up. Rim shows some dings.
Value Estimate
Value is based on silver melt (approx. $18-22) plus numismatic premium; total current market value approx. $30-$50 USD depending on exact year.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish as it destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free coin flip or capsule.
Similar Items
Italian 2 Lire (smaller), French 5 Francs Hercules, or Belgian 5 Francs Leopold II.
Interesting Facts
The 5 Lire coin was part of the Latin Monetary Union, making it interchangeable in value with the French 5 Francs of the same era.