Italy 1997 Lega Navale Italiana 200 Lire (Bronzital)
Coin (Circulating Commemorative) · Yellow-tone alloy (Bronzital copper-based alloy).
Purity: 0% / Non-Gold. This item is composed of Bronzital, an Italian alloy consisting of 92% copper, 6% aluminum, and 2% nickel. It has a 'gold-tone' appearance but contains no precious metal.
Type
Coin (Circulating Commemorative)
Purity
0% / Non-Gold. This item is composed of Bronzital, an Italian alloy consisting of 92% copper, 6% aluminum, and 2% nickel. It has a 'gold-tone' appearance but contains no precious metal.
Gold Type
Yellow-tone alloy (Bronzital copper-based alloy).
Weight
5.0 grams (standard mint specification).
Description
A circulating commemorative 200 Lire coin featuring the centenary of the Italian Naval League. The reverse depicts an anchor and a sailing ship montage with the dates 1897-1997. Due to its copper-aluminum composition, it mimics the appearance of 18K yellow gold but was intended for mass circulation.
Key Features
Features the LNI (Lega Navale Italiana) stylized logo, an anchor, and the dual dating 1897 and 1997. Specific 'Bronzital' alloy is a hallmark of late 20th-century Italian small change.
Color & Finish
Yellow-bronze with a satin to semi-lustrous finish. Signs of light oxidation and circulation wear are visible on the surface.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The 'R' mint mark for Rome (Istituto Poligrafico e Zecca dello Stato) is visible above the LNI seal; denomination '200 LIRE' is stamped clearly.
Dimensions Estimate
24.0 mm diameter; 1.64 mm thickness.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. The coin features relief striking with complex heraldic navy-themed iconography.
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable (Reeded edge).
Chain & Links
Not applicable (Flat disc construction).
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck; high-relief design for a circulating coin; reeded edge executed with standard industrial minting precision.
Authentication Indicators
Correct strike depth for the Rome mint; 'R' mint mark present; specific yellowish-gray oxidation consistent with aluminum-bronze rather than gold.
Origin & Maker
Italy; Minted in Rome (Zecca di Roma).
Era & Period
Modern Republic (Commemorated the 100th anniversary of the Lega Navale Italiana, 1897-1997).
Age Estimate
Produced in 1997.
Cultural Significance
Represents Italy's maritime heritage and the transition period of Italian currency before the adoption of the Euro in 2002.
Condition Notes
Very Fine (VF) to Extremely Fine (XF). Minor contact marks (bag marks) and edge nicks are visible on the lower rim. Luster is somewhat muted by circulation.
Value Estimate
Approximately $1.00 - $3.00 USD. Value is purely numismatic/collectible; there is no 'melt value' related to gold.
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry to prevent 'bronze disease' or green oxidation; do not clean with abrasives as it destroys numismatic value. Store in a PVC-free flip.
Similar Items
Standard 200 Lire (Maria Montessori or Cogwheel designs); 500 Lire bimetallic coins; Gold Sovereigns (which this is often visually confused with by novices).
Interesting Facts
The Italian 200 Lire coin was unique because it was often used in vending machines and as 'gettoni' (tokens) in earlier decades; this specific design honors one of Italy's oldest maritime organizations.