1991 Italy 200 Lire 'Genoa Expo' Commemorative Coin (Golden Bronze)
Coin - Commemorative Legal Tender / Numismatic · Yellow-toned alloy (Bronzital); mimics the appearance of 9K or 10K yellow gold but is a base metal alloy typically used for Italian circulation currency.
Purity: Non-gold (0% gold content). This item is composed of 'Bronzital', a copper-aluminum alloy. While it mimics the luster of lower-karat gold, it contains no precious metals.
Type
Coin - Commemorative Legal Tender / Numismatic
Purity
Non-gold (0% gold content). This item is composed of 'Bronzital', a copper-aluminum alloy. While it mimics the luster of lower-karat gold, it contains no precious metals.
Gold Type
Yellow-toned alloy (Bronzital); mimics the appearance of 9K or 10K yellow gold but is a base metal alloy typically used for Italian circulation currency.
Weight
5.0 grams (Standard weight for the 200 Lire coin series).
Description
A striking Italian 200 Lire commemorative coin featuring the iconic centaur and naval imagery associated with the Genoa Expo and the Italian Naval League. It showcases a warm, golden-brown hue characteristic of the Bronzital alloy, featuring a detailed anchor, sails, and a central medallion. This was a circulating commemorative, blending daily functionality with Italian maritime history.
Key Features
Design features the Italian Naval League logo (Lega Navale Italiana) superimposed over an anchor and sailboat. Features the split dates 1892-1991 signifying the centenary.
Color & Finish
Brilliant brassy-yellow. The finish is a satin-lustre typical of uncirculated or lightly circulated base metal coins, with a moderate surface patina and localized micro-scratches.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The letter 'R' (Mint mark for Rome/Istituto Poligrafico e Zecca dello Stato); the artist's name 'DRIUTTI' (at the base); denomination '200 LIRE'; and dates '1892' and '1991'.
Dimensions Estimate
24.0 mm in diameter, 1.64 mm in thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The design relies on high-relief die-struck metalwork.
Clasp & Closure
None (Not applicable). The coin features a reeded edge (grooved sides) for tactile grip and anti-counterfeiting.
Chain & Links
Not applicable. The coin has a circular planchet with a vertical reeded edge.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck on a dual-composition style planchet. The die-work shows high detail in the rigging of the ship and the lettering within the central seal, indicative of modern industrial minting techniques.
Authentication Indicators
Distinctive Bronzital color (more 'brassy' than gold), specific alignment of the Roman 'R' mint mark, '200 LIRE' denomination, and the weight-to-diameter ratio consistent with Italian Mint standards.
Origin & Maker
Italy; Minted in Rome by the Istituto Poligrafico e Zecca dello Stato (IPZS).
Era & Period
Modern (Late 20th Century). Specifically, the 1991 commemorative issue celebrating the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Italian Naval League.
Age Estimate
33 years (Minted 1991).
Cultural Significance
Represents Italy's deep-rooted maritime heritage and the transition period of Italian currency before the adoption of the Euro in 2002.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VF/XF). Visible surface dings and light scratches consistent with pocket wear or bulk storage. No major corrosion, but the luster has dimmed slightly from its original mint state.
Value Estimate
Melt value is negligible (copper/aluminum scrap). Market value is approximately $0.50 to $3.00 USD depending on the buyer and the local market. It carries no significant gold bullion premium.
Care & Maintenance
Clean only with mild soap and water if necessary; avoid abrasive polish which removes the 'mint bloom' and numismatic value. Store in a non-PVC coin flip to prevent oxidative 'greening'.
Similar Items
Often confused with the standard 1977-2001 200 Lire 'Work' coin (Cogwheel design) or the 1990 'Council of State' commemorative. It is frequently mistaken by laypeople for a small gold medallion.
Interesting Facts
Despite its gold appearance, the alloy 'Bronzital' was specifically engineered to be durable for circulation. The image on the reverse celebrates the Italian Naval League, which was founded in La Spezia in 1892.