Italia Milano Bicolor Commemorative Medal
Commemorative Medal / Souvenir Coin · Two-Tone (Yellow Gold outer rim and White Metal/Steel center)
Purity: Possible 18K Gold Outer Ring or Plated Alloy (Untested)
Type
Commemorative Medal / Souvenir Coin
Purity
Possible 18K Gold Outer Ring or Plated Alloy (Untested)
Gold Type
Two-Tone (Yellow Gold outer rim and White Metal/Steel center)
Weight
15 to 25 grams
Description
A striking bicolor commemorative medal featuring the coat of arms of Milan (a red cross on white field, though monochrome here) topped by a mural crown and flanked by a laurel wreath. The outer ring is a yellow-gold tone metal with high-relief 'ITALIA MILANO' text, while the inner core provides a sharp visual contrast in a dark grey-silver tone.
Key Features
Mural crown iconography, Lombardy-style heraldry, and two-piece metal assembly showing high-contrast bicolor effect.
Color & Finish
Polished yellow gold outer ring with a dark patinated or gunmetal-finish center disc
Hallmarks & Stamps
Potential laser-etched purity marks on the reeded edge; 'ITALIA MILANO' embossed on the obverse
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 30mm - 40mm diameter; 3mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None; features a bicolor metal inlay construction
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (coin/medal)
Chain & Links
Reeded (milled) edge detail typical of coinage
Craftsmanship Details
Die-struck components with a secondary assembly process to join the outer ring to the central core.
Authentication Indicators
The central join between the two metals is flush; reeded edges suggest a minted souvenir rather than a circulating currency.
Origin & Maker
Italy (likely Milanese manufacture or souvenir)
Era & Period
Contemporary (Modern Souvenir)
Age Estimate
Late 20th Century to early 2000s (circa 1990-present)
Cultural Significance
A tribute to Milan as Italy's economic and fashion capital, often sold as high-end tourism memorabilia or symbolic gifts.
Condition Notes
Very Good; minor surface abrasions and light oxidation/toning on the outer rim. Significant darkening of the central field.
Value Estimate
$20 - $50 as a souvenir; if 18K gold ring, value would be approximately $500+ based on gold melt weight.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft microfiber cloth; avoid harsh acids as the central metal may be a reactive alloy or plated steel.
Similar Items
Italian 500 Lire bi-metallic coins (standard currency) or custom luxury medals by Italian jewelry houses.
Interesting Facts
Milan's heraldry originates from the Crusades and has been used to represent the city's power in Lombardy for centuries.