Kingdom of Italy 5 Lire Silver Coin (Vittorio Emanuele II)
Coin (Numismatic/Currency) · None (Coin is Silver)
Purity: 0% Gold (900/1000 Silver)
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Currency)
Purity
0% Gold (900/1000 Silver)
Gold Type
None (Coin is Silver)
Weight
25.00 grams (Standard specification)
Description
This is a classic Italian 5 Lire silver coin featuring the crowned Savoy shield within a laurel wreath. Note: Despite the user prompt's focus on gold, this specific piece is an 'Argento' (Silver) coin minted during the Italian Unification period. It presents a regal 19th-century aesthetic with deep relief on the heraldic shield and crisp lettering.
Key Features
Crowned shield of Savoy, Order of Saints Maurice and Lazarus collar, Rome mint mark 'R', and L.5 denomination.
Color & Finish
Gunmetal grey to silver with significant surface oxidation and dark patina. Circulated matte finish.
Hallmarks & Stamps
'R' (Rome Mint mark), 'L. 5' (Denomination), 'REGNO D'ITALIA' (Kingdom of Italy), Savoy Coat of Arms.
Dimensions Estimate
37.0 mm diameter
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (milled)
Chain & Links
Not applicable (solid planchet)
Craftsmanship Details
Die-struck coin with high-relief heraldry. Features a reeded edge to prevent 'clipping' or shaving of the precious metal.
Authentication Indicators
Weight checks (25g), reeded edge inspection, and checking for the 'R' or 'M' (Milan) mint marks are standard. Surface pitting suggests it is genuine but well-traveled.
Origin & Maker
Kingdom of Italy, Zecca di Roma (Rome Mint)
Era & Period
Kingdom of Italy (Vittorio Emanuele II Reign, 1861-1878)
Age Estimate
Produced between 1861 and 1878
Cultural Significance
A symbol of the 'Risorgimento' (Italian Unification), representing the transition from fragmented states to a single Kingdom under Vittorio Emanuele II.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good (VG/F). Significant surface scratches, heavy circulation wear on the shield lines, and a dark, uneven patina suggest long-term handling or poor storage.
Value Estimate
$30 - $60 USD based on current silver melt ($20 approx) and numismatic premium for a circulated common-date Rome mint.
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or dip in silver polish; preserving the original patina is essential for numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free coin flip.
Similar Items
French 5 Francs (Hercule or Napoleon III), Belgian 5 Francs (Leopold II), Swiss 5 Francs (Helvetia sitting).
Interesting Facts
The 5 Lire was part of the Latin Monetary Union created in 1865, meaning it was equivalent in weight and fineness to the French 5 Francs and Swiss 5 Francs of the time.