Kingdom of Italy Vittorio Emanuele III 10 Lire Biga Silver/Gold-Tone Coin 1927
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative) · Gold-plated or gilded finish over silver or base alloy; exhibits characteristic yellow-brown patina of aged gilding.
Purity: Non-solid gold; likely a plated or gilded base metal souvenir/token. Authentic 1927 L.10 coins are struck in .835 silver.
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Commemorative)
Purity
Non-solid gold; likely a plated or gilded base metal souvenir/token. Authentic 1927 L.10 coins are struck in .835 silver.
Gold Type
Gold-plated or gilded finish over silver or base alloy; exhibits characteristic yellow-brown patina of aged gilding.
Weight
Authentic silver specification is 10 grams; this plated version likely weighs between 9-10 grams.
Description
A numismatic specimen featuring Italy's famous 'Biga' (Chariot) design. It depicts a female figure representing Italy driving a two-horse chariot, holding a fasces. This specific piece appears to have been aftermarket gilded or is a contemporary plated souvenir of the silver original.
Key Features
Dynamic horses in gallop, Liberty/Italy figure with fasces, Roman 'R' mint mark, and distinct Art Deco aesthetic typical of 1920s Italian coinage.
Color & Finish
Matte gold-tone with significant surface oxidation; displays a champagne to brassy hue with visible wear on high relief points.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped '1927 L.10 R' on reverse; designers G. ROMAGNOLI and A. MOTTI.INC visible under the horses.
Dimensions Estimate
Standard 27mm diameter; approximately 1.8mm thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; relief-struck metal design.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded or smooth edge (edge not visible in photo); typical of circulating currency from the era.
Chain & Links
N/A; circular planchet construction.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality die striking; intricate muscle definition on the horses and fine lines in the chariot's spokes.
Authentication Indicators
The 'L.10' denomination confirms it was originally a silver issue; the golden color is a red flag for a non-factory finish. Weight and magnetic tests are required for definitive metal analysis.
Origin & Maker
Italy; Mint of Rome (indicated by the 'R' mark).
Era & Period
Interwar Period / Fascist Italy (Kingdom of Italy), specifically 1927.
Age Estimate
Produced in 1927 (historical era); condition suggests significant long-term handling.
Cultural Significance
Represents the economic and political transition of Italy during the late 1920s, merging classical Roman imagery with modern nationalist symbols.
Condition Notes
Very Good (VG) numismatic grade. Surface scratches and heavy toning present; some loss of gilded finish on high points like the chariot wheel and horse muscles.
Value Estimate
Collector value for a plated souvenir is approximately $10-$30 USD; if proven to be an authentic .835 silver coin with aftermarket gilding, melt value is roughly $7-$9 USD.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish with abrasives as it will remove the gold plating and numismatic value; store in a PVC-free coin flip.
Similar Items
1927 20 Lire (Littore) silver coins; various Vittorio Emanuele III gold coins (20, 50, 100 Lire) which are much smaller/thinner.
Interesting Facts
The 'Biga' design was intended to evoke the glory of the Roman Empire, a common theme under the reign of Vittorio Emanuele III.