Italy 200 Lire Commemorative Coin (1991) - 130th Anniversary of Italian Navy (Gold-Plated/Gilded Bronze Version)
Coin (Commemorative/Token) · Yellow Gold plating over Bronzital alloy.
Purity: Not Solid Gold (Gilded/Plated Bronze). The base metal is Bronzital (an alloy of copper, aluminum, and nickel). If this is a specific jeweler's gold-plated version, it typically carries a thin layer of 18K-24K gold meant only for color decoration.
Type
Coin (Commemorative/Token)
Purity
Not Solid Gold (Gilded/Plated Bronze). The base metal is Bronzital (an alloy of copper, aluminum, and nickel). If this is a specific jeweler's gold-plated version, it typically carries a thin layer of 18K-24K gold meant only for color decoration.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold plating over Bronzital alloy.
Weight
5.0 grams (Standard official weight for a 200 Lire Bronzital coin).
Description
This 200 Lire coin was issued to celebrate the 130th Anniversary of the Italian Navy. The reverse features a stylized representation of an anchor, sailing vessels, and the crest of the Lega Navale Italiana. While the standard issue is an aluminum-bronze color, this specific specimen appears to have been gold-plated, either as a souvenir item or commemorative token. It represents the height of Italian industrial currency design before the adoption of the Euro.
Key Features
Anniversary dates (1861-1991), the nautical anchor and ship motif, and the denomination '200 LIRE' in block lettering.
Color & Finish
Yellow gold tone; the surface shows a semi-reflective luster consistent with high-production circulation strikes or aftermarket gilding. The field shows some minor pitting and surface wear common in handled base-metal coins.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The 'R' mint mark is visible (Mint of Rome). '200 LIRE' is the denomination. Dates '1861' (left) and '1991' (right) indicate the 130th anniversary period. The text 'LEGA NAVALE ITALIANA' is inscribed within the central anchor seal.
Dimensions Estimate
Diameter of 24 mm; Thickness of 1.64 mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None.
Clasp & Closure
Reeded edge (milled edge). Not applicable as it is a coin.
Chain & Links
N/A - This is a single round disc coin.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck die rotation; standard industrial minting with medium relief. The reeded edge is consistent with official Italian minting standards of the 1990s.
Authentication Indicators
Correct typeface for the Rome Mint; 'R' mark placement; specific design for the 1991 naval commemorative. Red Flag: This coin was never officially minted in solid gold for circulation; any gold appearance is surface-level plating.
Origin & Maker
Italy; Istituto Poligrafico e Zecca dello Stato (IPZS), Rome Mint.
Era & Period
Contemporary (Late 20th Century Italian Lira era).
Age Estimate
Circa 1991.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of Italy's maritime history and national pride during the pre-Euro Lira period.
Condition Notes
Very Good (Circulated). Visible surface dings on the rim and fields. The plating appears intact but shows signs of handling and oxidation common to Bronzital-based coins.
Value Estimate
Melt value: Near zero (negligible gold content). Collector value: $1 - $5 USD as a novelty or numismatic curiosity. The value is symbolic rather than intrinsic.
Care & Maintenance
Do not use abrasive cleaners as they will strip the thin gold plating. Gently wipe with a soft cloth. Store in a non-PVC coin flip to prevent 'green slime' corrosion typical of copper-based alloys.
Similar Items
Standard 1991 200 Lire (Unplated), 500 Lire Bimetallic coins, or actual sovereign gold coins like the 20 Lire (Marengo) which contains 6.45g of .900 solid gold.
Interesting Facts
The 200 Lire was one of the most beloved Italian coins due to its unique golden-bronze color (Bronzital) even without plating. The 'Lega Navale' commemorative is a popular find for beachcombers and hobbyist collectors in Italy.