Kingdom of Italy Napoleon I 40 Lire Gold Coin, 1810
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion) · Yellow Gold (Traditional alloy with copper for durability)
Purity: 21.6K (900 Fine Gold); 90% gold and 10% copper alloy.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Bullion)
Purity
21.6K (900 Fine Gold); 90% gold and 10% copper alloy.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Traditional alloy with copper for durability)
Weight
12.90 grams (approx. 0.3734 troy oz pure gold content)
Description
An authentic 40 Lire piece from the Napoleonic Kingdom of Italy. The obverse features the left-facing bare head of Napoleon Bonaparte as Emperor. This coin represents the introduction of the decimal system and the Napoleonic monetary standards across Europe, designed by chief engraver Luigi Manfredini.
Key Features
Napoleon I portrait, bare head (unwreathed), Italian inscription, high relief strike, and specific 40 Lire denomination.
Color & Finish
Deep yellow with a brownish-orange patina and heavy surface toning; circulation wear has dulled the original luster.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Inscriptions: 'NAPOLEONE IMPERATORE' and '1810' date on obverse; typically features mint marks (like 'M' for Milan) on the reverse.
Dimensions Estimate
26 mm diameter; 1.8 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (milled edge) to prevent clipping and counterfeiting.
Chain & Links
Standard coin profile with raised rim; reeded edge detail.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck on a screw press; features high relief portraiture and crisp typography typical of early 19th-century Italian minting.
Authentication Indicators
Weight (12.9g), diameter (26mm), and specific lettering style are diagnostic markers. The heavy toning suggests it hasn't been chemically cleaned recently, which is preferred by collectors.
Origin & Maker
Italy (Milan or Venice mint under Napoleonic administration).
Era & Period
Napoleonic Era (1804–1814); Kingdom of Italy.
Age Estimate
Circa 1810; over 210 years old.
Cultural Significance
Represents the political and economic integration of Italy under French influence during the early 19th century.
Condition Notes
Very Fine (VF) to Good (G) range based on visible wear; significant surface oxidation and darkening (toning), minor rim dings, and flattened hair detail on the portrait.
Value Estimate
Primarily determined by gold melt value plus a 10-25% numismatic premium depending on reverse condition and mint rarity.
Care & Maintenance
Never clean or polish numismatic coins as it destroys historical value; store in a PVC-free airtight capsule or flip.
Similar Items
French 40 Francs (identical specs in French), Italian 20 Lire (half-weight), Sardinian gold coins of the same era.
Interesting Facts
Napoleon standardized European coinage using the Latin Monetary Union standards long before the Euro existed; his '40 Lire' was the Italian equivalent of the French '40 Francs'.