Kingdom of Italy 5 Lire Silver Coin (Umberto I/Vittorio Emanuele II Type)
Coin (Numismatic/Currency) · Silver Alloy (typically 90% silver, 10% copper)
Purity: Non-gold; 90.0% Silver (.900 Fineness)
Type
Coin (Numismatic/Currency)
Purity
Non-gold; 90.0% Silver (.900 Fineness)
Gold Type
Silver Alloy (typically 90% silver, 10% copper)
Weight
25.0 grams (Standard weight for L.5 denomination)
Description
An authentic high-denomination silver coin from the Kingdom of Italy featuring the Savoyard crowned shield draped with the Collar of the Annunziata and flanked by laurel branches. The inscription 'REGNO D'ITALIA' arcs across the top.
Key Features
Crowned House of Savoy coat of arms; Latin Monetary Union standard (25g silver); 'L. 5' value indicator
Color & Finish
Silver-grey with significant surface oxidation and grey patina; matte circulated finish
Hallmarks & Stamps
Mint mark 'R' (Rome) or similar typically present near bottom; denomination 'L. 5' stamped at base
Dimensions Estimate
37 mm diameter; approximately 2.5 mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
None
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge for security and to prevent metal clipping
Chain & Links
N/A; Reeded edge detail
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck; excellent die engraving showing individual leaves in laurel branches and textures in the shield heraldry
Authentication Indicators
Correct font styles for 'REGNO D'ITALIA'; crisp strike of the chain links around the shield; consistent rim beading
Origin & Maker
Kingdom of Italy, Royal Mint (Zecca di Stato)
Era & Period
Modern Italian Unification (Late 19th Century)
Age Estimate
Likely produced between 1870 and 1879 (Vittorio Emanuele II) or 1878-1879 (Umberto I)
Cultural Significance
Represents the economic unification of the Italian peninsula under the House of Savoy after the Risorgimento.
Condition Notes
Very Fine (VF) to Extra Fine (EF) details but with significant surface spotting and potential environmental damage; wear visible on high points of crown and wreath
Value Estimate
Melative (Silver) value ~$20 USD; Numismatic market value $35 - $150 USD depending on specific year and mint mark strike
Care & Maintenance
Do not clean or polish as it destroys numismatic value; store in a PVC-free archival flip or capsule to prevent further oxidation.
Similar Items
French 5 Francs (Hercules or Napoleon III), Belgian 5 Francs (Leopold II), Spanish 5 Pesetas
Interesting Facts
The 5 Lire coin was part of the Latin Monetary Union, meaning it was equivalent in weight and fineness to the French 5 Francs and Swiss 5 Francs of the same era.