Moneta's Temple and Gallery

Italy - 5 Lire 1911 50th Anniversary of the Kingdom

Moneta — Thu, 04 Apr 2024 13:27:24 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: ITALY. Vittorio Emanuele III. (Emperor, 1900-1946). 1911-R AR 5 Lire. PCGS AU58, better than photo. 50th Anniversary of the Kingdom. Rome. Head left / Two classical figures standing. Italy - 5 Lire 1911 50 Years of Unification. In the field there are two figures: the female represents Italy and the male, seated on an altar, Rome. Behind the figures there is a giant steam warship adorned with festoons and with the Scudo Sabaudo on the bow. At the left of the figures is a plow covered with flowers with 1861-1911. Edge lettering: *FERT*∞*FERT*∞*FERT*∞. Medal alignment ^^. Engraver: Domenico Trentacoste. KM 53; Dav.-143; Gigante 71; MIR 1135a; Mont.-110; Pagani 707. This addition completes the 50th Anniversary of the Kingdom four coin commemorative set, all in AU - Unc. FERT was the motto of the house of Savoy, adopted by King Vittorio Amedeo II (1666-1732). It is thought to be an acronym, though what it stands for have been lost to time. Theories include: 1. Foedere Et Religione Tenemur (Latin, ‘treaty and religion bind us’) 2. Fortitudo Eius Rempublicam Tenet (Latin, ‘his bravery [or strength] preserves [or defends] the state’) 3. Fides Est Regni Tutela (Latin, ‘faith is the protector of [our] kingdom’) This seems to be the most likely meaning of the acronym FERT (ed). [Numista] Italy issued a series of beautiful coins to celebrate the 50th Year of the Kingdom (unified; 1861 - 1911). The silver 2 Lire is affordable, with a nice example here in the Moneta Museum, while the 5 Lire is very expensive in high grades, as is the gold 50 Lire, I had to settle for this exceptional AU 58. Only 60,000 of these were struck. See the 10 Centesimi here in the Museum, which is the only other coin in the 1911 Anniversary series. Obverse shows the portrait of the King of Italy, Vittorio Emanuele III. Reverse, are two standing figures: the female represents Italy and the male Rome. Behind the figures there is a giant steel WWI war ship. It's interesting to note that the 10 Centesimi and 2 Lire coins feature the wooden ship but the reverse design is changed for the 5 Lire and this 50 Lire piece with the war ship now changed to a steel war ship that is garlanded. Design by Italian designer D. Trentacoste and Luigi Giorgi INC. The ANA's "Numismatist" for Oct 2020 (p.39) has a nice little feature on the coins of Vittorio Emanuele III at this: http://onlinedigitalpublishing.com/publication/frame.php?i=673359&p=&pn=&ver=html5

Italy - Roman Republic Scudo 1799

Moneta — Thu, 05 Jan 2023 14:37:22 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: Roman Republic (1798 - 1799), one of the new and short lived republics established as a result of the French Revolutionary War period. Latin legend, OB: REPVBLICA ROMANA; Rx: SCVDO ROMANO. Engraver was Tommaso Mercandetti with his name appearing as T. MERCANDETTI on the underside of the ground field in exergue.

Italy - 20 Lire 1927 R, Lictor w/ Italy seated

Moneta — Mon, 21 Mar 2022 18:21:00 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Head of King Vittorio Emanuele III facing right; Lettering: VITTORIO.EMANVELE.III.RE. Translation: Victor Emmanuel III King; Engraver: Giuseppe Romagnoli Reverse A Lictor with fasces greeting a seated woman (representing Italy) that has a torch in her right hand and the left arm placed on a shield with Savoy Insigna, with the year in the Fascist Era left of the Lictor, while at the right of Italy is the date and the mintmark. The value is below, in the exergue, together with the names of engraver and author. Lettering: ITALIA A.VI 1927 L.20 G.ROMAGNOLI A.MOTTI INC.

Italy - 20 Centesimi Type Automat Token

Moneta — Fri, 14 Jan 2022 16:45:26 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: An unknown token based on the famous Italia or Ceres head 20 Centesimi. Not listed in Numista but I attempted to add it. Seeking additional information.

Italy - 10 Centesimi 1920 - Bee & Flower

Moneta — Thu, 13 Jan 2022 14:18:19 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: I love this design of the bee in the flower and they are difficult to obtain in the very top high grades. Vittorio Emanuele III, engraved by Attilio Silvio. Better in hand and appears to be Unc. The ANA's "Numismatist" for Oct 2020 (p.39) has a nice little feature on the coins of Vittorio Emanuele III at this: http://onlinedigitalpublishing.com/publication/frame.php?i=673359&p=&pn=&ver=html5

Italy - 100 Lire 1931 Italia on Prow

Moneta — Thu, 13 Jan 2022 13:37:13 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: Your typical portrait of Vittorio Emanuele III, under fascist rule. A reoccurring theme on the reverse is a figure of Italia on the prow of a boat. The fascist year IX appears under the 1931 date, this '31 date can also with the fascist year of X, both versions say 34 k minted with no value distinction in KM. These were struck between 1931 and 1933 with '32 & '33 with much lower mintages. Another Romagnoli design.

Italy - 2 Lire Fascist 1927 over 23?

Moneta — Sun, 09 Jan 2022 15:45:41 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: I hope the inset detail of the date will show enough to make a determination if this is just a common 1923 with a bunged up date (small wire fragment struck through) or a rare 1927 struck over an 1923. I suspect the former, in which case I paid too much and may return it. Helpful opinions welcome!

Italy - 10 Lire 1936, Italia on Prow

Moneta — Sat, 08 Jan 2022 15:06:53 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: Year XIV of the fascist regime under Vittorio Emanuele III. Another great Romagnoli coin design. This is the only obtainable year, 1937 - 1941 issued only 20 per year, this first year issue of 1936 had 619k struck. There's more golden tone overall than the photo indicates, all natural and uncleaned.

Italy - Siege of Mantua AN VII (1799)

Moneta — Sat, 21 Nov 2020 12:45:41 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: This coin is part of the French Revolutionary Wars series the Moneta Museum tries to accumulate. Initially the Austrians were under siege in 1796. As the wars progressed the shoe was on the other foot as the French forces came under siege in Mantua. This coin was struck during that short siege of April to the end of July of 1799. You can see the much more available 1 Soldi here in the Museum at this: http://www.moneta-coins.com/photopost/showphoto.php?photo=2467&title=siege-of-mantua1799&cat=893 Napoleon had occupied Mantua in northern Italy during the first siege in 1797. Now the Austrians were back with 40k troops vs the French forces of 10k holding Mantua. The Siege of Mantua (1799) was a four-month effort by the Austrian army to regain a presence in northern Italy after being excluded from that region by Napoleon Bonaparte through the successful French Siege of Mantua in 1797. In April 1799, the Austrians placed a military blockade around Mantua as part of the War of the Second Coalition with the intent of withering the French by attrition. While the diminishing food supplies and losses weakened the French army, the Austrians received reinforcements and attacked on 4 July 1799. By the end of the month, the French agreed to surrender. Therefore, this billon coin was struck during the very short period of July 1799 (AN VII). Obverse has a fasces topped with a Liberty Cap; legend is: ASSEDIO. D.I. MANT. AN. VII. R. Reverse legend is SOLDI DI MILANO V.

Italy - Siege of Mantua AN VII (1799)

Moneta — Sat, 21 Nov 2020 12:45:41 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: This coin is part of the French Revolutionary Wars series the Moneta Museum tries to accumulate. Initially the Austrians were under siege in 1796. As the wars progressed the shoe was on the other foot as the French forces came under siege in Mantua. This coin was struck during that short siege of April to the end of July of 1799. You can see the much more available 1 Soldi here in the Museum at this: http://www.moneta-coins.com/photopost/showphoto.php?photo=2467&title=siege-of-mantua1799&cat=893 Napoleon had occupied Mantua in northern Italy during the first siege in 1797. Now the Austrians were back with 40k troops vs the French forces of 10k holding Mantua. The Siege of Mantua (1799) was a four-month effort by the Austrian army to regain a presence in northern Italy after being excluded from that region by Napoleon Bonaparte through the successful French Siege of Mantua in 1797. In April 1799, the Austrians placed a military blockade around Mantua as part of the War of the Second Coalition with the intent of withering the French by attrition. While the diminishing food supplies and losses weakened the French army, the Austrians received reinforcements and attacked on 4 July 1799. By the end of the month, the French agreed to surrender. Therefore, this billon coin was struck during the very short period of July 1799 (AN VII). This shows exceptional execution and preservation, these were also cast in 2 & 5 Soldo denominations. Obverse has a fasces topped with a Liberty Cap; legend is: ASSEDIO. D.-I. MANTOVA. Reverse legend is UN SOLDO DI MILAN.

Italy - Piedmont Nation 2 Soldi AN9 1800

Moneta — Wed, 18 Nov 2020 23:58:04 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: NAZIONE PIEDMONTESE (OB) was established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1798. This area of Italy is part of the mainland holdings of Sardinia. By 1799 Austria and Russian forces overthrew the republic as part of the French Revolutionary Wars. Date is AN9 which equates to ~1800. Reverse legend is LIBERTA - EGUAGLIANZA (means LIBERY - EQUALITY). The instrument shown is a masons level and was also used as an angle measurement tool. It's a prominent symbol used during the French Revolution as is the Liberty Cap atop the level. These are very hard to locate in better condition and it's my second, and much better example.

Italy - Partenopean or Napolitana Republic 1799

Moneta — Wed, 18 Nov 2020 23:31:14 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: This rare piece is part of my series related to the French Revolution inspired revolutions among the Italian States. In this case the short lived Parthenopean Republic of Naples, 12 Carlini, the highest denomination and RARE. The Republic lasted just a little over 140 days. Obverse legend is: 'REPUBBLICA NAPOLITANA' Liberty appears supporting a fasces, w/axe and holds spear topped with a Liberty Cap. The reverse legend around is 'ANNO SETTIMO DELLA LIBERTA.' which equates to 'Year AN7 (1799) of Liberty'. Inner wreath legend is: 'CAR/LINI/DODI/CI', or 12 Carlini, without the ZN mintmark (rare). Edge is engrailed with what appears to be slashed thru circles. The history of the revolution here is quite brutal, short, and involved the British Navy. The Parthenopean Republic (Italian: Repubblica Parthenopea) was a semi-autonomous Republic located within the Kingdom of Naples and supported by the French First Republic. The republic emerged during the French Revolutionary War after King Ferdinand IV fled before advancing French troops. The republic existed from 21 January to 13 June 1799, collapsing when Ferdinand returned to restore monarchial authority and forcibly subdued republican activities. Italy, Naples, Parthenopean Republic, silver 12 Carlini, ANNO SETTIMO (1799), REPUBBLICA – NAPOLITANA, standing figure of Liberty holding Liberty cap on staff in r. hand and fasces in l., rev. CARLINI DODICI, value within wreath (KM.C84.2; Dav.1410; Pag.1)

Italy - Partenopean or Napolitana Republic 1799

Moneta — Wed, 18 Nov 2020 23:31:14 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: This rare piece is part of my series related to the French Revolution inspired revolutions among the Italian States. In this case the short lived Parthenopean Republic of Naples, 12 Carlini, the highest denomination and RARE. The Republic lasted just a little over 140 days. Obverse legend is: 'REPUBBLICA NAPOLITANA' Liberty appears supporting a fasces, w/axe and holds spear topped with a Liberty Cap. The reverse legend around is 'ANNO SETTIMO DELLA LIBERTA.' which equates to 'Year AN7 (1799) of Liberty'. Inner wreath legend is: 'CAR/LINI/DODI/CI', or 12 Carlini, without the ZN mintmark (rare). Edge is engrailed with what appears to be slashed thru circles. The history of the revolution here is quite brutal, short, and involved the British Navy. The Parthenopean Republic (Italian: Repubblica Partenopea) was a semi-autonomous Republic located within the Kingdom of Naples and supported by the French First Republic. The republic emerged during the French Revolutionary War after King Ferdinand IV fled before advancing French troops. The republic existed from 21 January to 13 June 1799, collapsing when Ferdinand returned to restore monarchial authority and forcibly subdued republican activities.

Italy - 1 Lire 1924

Moneta — Wed, 18 Nov 2020 22:48:58 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: This is a second example here in the Moneta Museum, the 1924 has a "closed 2" as opposed to the first year issue of 1922. It's also a much smaller issue, but 4 of the 13 years of issue were struck in great numbers. This coin features the allegorical figure of 'Italia' holding a Winged Victory. The Shield of Savoy graces the reverse with the words "BVONO Da L. 1" meaning 'Good for One Lire.' It was designed by Romagnoli and A.S. Motti.

Italy - Vatican City 20 Centesimi 1940 St. Paul

Moneta — Wed, 18 Nov 2020 18:28:40 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: Pope Pius XII, 2 year issue features Saint Paul. Here the OB/Rx images are reversed. OB: PIVS·XII·PONTIF EX·MAXIMVS·A·III; Rx: STATO DELLA CITTÀ DEL VATICANO C. 20. Engraver: Aurelio Mistruzzi

Italy - 1 Lire 1913

Moneta — Wed, 18 Nov 2020 17:47:36 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: Among the series of wonderful quadriga designs there was a 1 & 2 Lire struck with a thin laurel wreath surrounding the head of Vittorio Emanuele III. All can be scarcer except this 1913 which saw over 16 M struck. Original toning on this decent specimen. D. Calandra M. is shown on the obverse and reverse as designer. You'll see this referred to as the "Slow Quadriga" versus the later design shown for KM# 57, aka "Fast Quadriga." OB: Half bust of King Vittorio Emanuele III in high uniform facing right, inside a circle adorned with leaves with the legend outside and the name of the engraver on the rim. Legend: VITTORIO.EMANUELE.III.RE.D'ITALIA [D.CALANDRA M.] Translation: Vittorio Emanuele III King of Italy. Rx: Italy standing on an adorned quadriga with a shield on her left hand and an olive branch in the right. The date is below the prancing legs of the horses; far below on the line of the exergue there is the name of the engraver. In the exergue, the value is flanked by two knots with the mintmark on left and the Star of Italy plus the name of the engraver at the right. Legend: 1910 FERT D·CALANDRA M·R L.1 L·GIORGI INC· Engraver: Davide Calandra Compare a "Fast Quadriga" on this 2 Lire piece in the Moneta Museum at this: http://www.moneta-coins.com/photopost/showphoto.php?photo=1799&title=italy2-lire-2c-1916&cat=575

Italy - 100 Lire 1925 - Summit of Italy

Moneta — Sun, 25 Oct 2020 18:12:34 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: This is a bold 1 year type and only struck in this 100 Lire denomination (5 k struck). The portrait of Vittorio Emanuele III sits atop an oak sprig. The rectangular feature below is actually a ring around the oak that bears cryptic symbols. This coin celebrates the 25th Year of reign and the 10th year of entry into the WWI conflict. The reverse features the heroic naked figure of a man holding a flag and small figure of Victory while kneeling against a rock inscribed "Vetta Italia" [Summit of Italy]. Design by Aurelio Mistruzzi. This coin is NOT physically in the Moneta Museum, it's a borrowed photo.

Italy - 10 Lire 1912 - Italia w/ Plow

Moneta — Sun, 25 Oct 2020 17:45:38 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: This design was struck in 10, 20, 50 & 100 Lire denominations, all of them very scarce. KM doesn't even illustrate the 10 Lire so I've done it here from a borrowed photo [Atlas]. The design is not by Romagnoli but by a much less prolific engraver by the name of Egidio Boninsegna. You can safely assume this is a figure of the personification of Italia standing with a plow and holding wheat. Legend above is REGNO D'ITALIA [Kingdom of Italy]. The obverse features a nice portrait of Vittorio Emanuele III in a military uniform, signifying the recent military stance taken in Europe and Africa as Italy wished to gain some imperial colonies like most other European countries of the time. They were a little late to the imperialist party however. The whole style series is very scarce to rare, this 1912 is by far the most attainable with only 6,796 struck.

Italy - 20 Lire 1923 - Fasces

Moneta — Fri, 23 Oct 2020 17:13:34 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: 1st Anniversary of Fascist government of Mussolini under Vittorio Emanuele III. This is a rare one year issue of only 20k struck. A bold design typical of the fascist regime that started the anti-communist movement, also taken up by Nazi Germany. Designed by Attilio Motti. This is a borrowed image, this coin is not physically in the Moneta Museum.

Italy 20 Lire 1958 - Ceres

Moneta — Sun, 23 Aug 2020 19:36:40 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: The big issue year (80.3 M) for this 3 year type. Ceres head with Oak sprig. Designed by Pietro Giampaoli.

San Marino (Italy) 5 Lire 1936 R

Moneta — Sat, 04 Jul 2020 19:25:06 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: San Marino is a very small landlocked country surrounded by Italy. It consists of not much more than about 3 hills. I like the design of a male figure in a medieval helmet. The reverse features a plow which is a common theme on Italian coins as well. The 1936 saw 100k of these struck in Rome.

San Marino (Italy) 5 Lire 1936 R

Moneta — Sat, 04 Jul 2020 19:25:06 -0400

Italy - 50 Lire 50th Anniversary of Unification 1911

Moneta — Fri, 03 Jul 2020 17:59:16 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Italy issued a series of beautiful coins to celebrate the 50th Year of the Kingdom (unified; 1861 - 1911). The silver 2 Lire is affordable, with a nice example here in the Moneta Museum, while the 5 Lire is very expensive in high grades, as is the gold 50 Lire, I had to settle for this exceptional AU 58. Only 20,000 of these were struck. See the 10 Centesimi here in the Museum, which is the only other coin in the 1911 Anniversary series. Obverse shows the portrait of the King of Italy, Vittorio Emanuele III. Reverse, are two standing figures: the female represents Italy and the male Rome. Behind the figures there is a giant steel WWI war ship. It's interesting to note that the 10 Centesimi and 2 Lire coins feature the wooden ship but the reverse design is changed for the 5 Lire and this 50 Lire piece with the war ship now changed to a steel war ship that is garlanded. Another great coin from Italy, with the highest condition I've seen on this at MS 61, all had major flaws so this find was a must have. Design by Italian designer D. Trentacoste and Luigi Giorgi INC. The ANA's "Numismatist" for Oct 2020 (p.39) has a nice little feature on the coins of Vittorio Emanuele III at this: http://onlinedigitalpublishing.com/publication/frame.php?i=673359&p=&pn=&ver=html5

Italy - 5 Lire 1948

Moneta — Sun, 20 Oct 2019 16:37:29 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: There are a lot of neo-classical themes for Italian coins even post-WWII. Here's a bold design [by G. Romagnoli] that appears appropriate for an Olympic games mixed with the celebration of a grape producing heritage. Looking back to earlier in that decade you can see the same obverse profile with a fasces overlain and w/o hand.

Italy - 5 Lire 1937 - Family

Moneta — Sun, 20 Oct 2019 00:22:39 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Another wonderful design by R. Romagnoli by way of a little propaganda piece for the cause of Fascism in Italy before WWII. An 'Ideal' mother sits with her four children. With a baby at her breast the whole scene evokes Michaelangelo's "Pieta" with Mother Mary holding the body of Christ Jesus. The obverse features the portrait of Vittorio Emanuele III. This is the scarcer issue of 1937 with 100k struck vs. the 1936 with over 1 M minted.

Italy - 500 Lire 1961 - 100 Years of Unification

Moneta — Thu, 14 Feb 2019 18:28:59 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: Here's a nice AU+ example of the second 500 Lire issue under the Republic of Italy. This handsome design commemorates the 100th Anniversary of the unification of Italy. The obverse features a seated figure of Italia holding a helmet and olive sprig, the reverse depicts a racing quadrigga. While it's a nice design, it can't hold a candle to the series issued for the 50th Anniversary, see some of these elsewhere here in the Moneta Museum. This one-year type is designed by Guido Veroi with 27.12 M struck.

Italy - 1000 Lire 1970 - Rome Centennial

Moneta — Thu, 14 Feb 2019 18:12:13 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: With the advent of the unified Italian Kingdom, and the crowning of Vittorio Emanuele II as King (1861), the consolidation was complete by 1870. Apparently, Rome was now officially made the capital. Hence, this issue, featuring and ancient type depiction of Concordia, struck for the commemoration of Rome as capital, for 100 years. Designed by G.M. Monassi and L. Cretara, as a one-year type and 31,011,000 struck.

Italy - 500 Lire Columbus's Ships - 1985

Moneta — Wed, 13 Feb 2019 23:01:37 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: Italy commemorates the their favorite son, Christopher Columbus, on this fine 500 Lire piece. The obverse features a nice profile portrait of what has been described as a Renaissance Woman (why not Isabella? She's Spanish), there's no obverse legend of any kind, just a border of shields, which I assume represents Italian states in the time of Columbus, who was born in Genoa. The reverse depicts the 3 ships (Santa Maria, Pinto, Nina) Columbus used to discover the New World in 1492. First struck in in 1958, the issue was struck until 2001, with the exception of 1971 - 1979. Proof-likes were struck every year up until 1968 when proofs were struck for almost every year (ex. 1983 & 4). Varieties exist for the year 1966 and perhaps earlier. The strike date appears in relief on the lettered edge, in this case 1985, with 74.6k struck for this year. KM values the proofs at much less than the business strikes, for this year only 15k were struck, yet they value the proof at nearly half, that's odd.

Italy - 1 Centesimo 1861, Unification Year

Moneta — Wed, 13 Feb 2019 22:08:48 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: Vittorio Emanuel II, King of Sardinia, was installed as King of a united Kingdom of Italy in 1861, so this most minor of coins was struck in the first year. Not uncommon, with 75 M struck, this one is an exceptional example of a business strike, it's much better in hand.

Italy - 2 Centesimi 1911

Moneta — Wed, 13 Feb 2019 19:48:57 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: Vittorio Emanuele III - 1911, the 50th Anniversary of Unification year. However, this is not a special issue for that year or occasion, this design was struck between 1908 and 1917, with 1908 being the key date issue. Nice design with a woman, probably representing Italy, on the prow of a Roman style galley. The ANA's "Numismatist" for Oct 2020 (p.39) has a nice little feature on th coins of Vittorio Emanuele III at this: http://onlinedigitalpublishing.com/publication/frame.php?i=673359&p=&pn=&ver=html5

Italy - Mantua Siege of 1848 - Austrian Fiorino

Moneta — Thu, 08 Nov 2018 19:15:23 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: OB: Ferdinand I of Austria-Hungary portrait with mintmark of 'GM'. This coin was previously listed under Austria (KM2226). This was an issue for 1848 only as Italians besieged Austrian forces at Mantua, northern Italy. [FERD.I.D.G.AVSTR.IMP.HVNG.BOH.R.H.N.V]. Rx: Imperial Eagle [REX.LOMB.ET.VEN.DALM.-GAL.LOD.ILL.A.A]. Scarce with only 3,947 struck. Taken by Austria (& Russia) during the French Revolutionary Wars period (~1799), Mantua was solidly in Austrian hands by 1814. During the Revolutions of 1848 a general insurrection against Austrian rule occurred in northern Italy. An army under King Carlo Alberto of Sardinia-Piedmont besieged Mantua with the Austrians, under General Radetzky, defending it successfully. This series of coins bear the 'GM' mintmark which is presumed to refer to Guarnigione Mantua (Garrison Mantua). Mantua was united with the rest of Italy in 1866.

Italy - Roman Republic Pergola 1798

Moneta — Thu, 06 Sep 2018 23:59:27 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Part of my French Revolutionary Wars series, however, this rare coin is not in the Moneta Museum. Coin photo is from VL Nummis Auctions, Lot 617, Sep 9, 2018. Their description: Italian States Pergola Firts Roman Republic (1798-1799) 2 Baiocchi 1798 Pergola Muntoni 67, Berman 3192. PCGS AU50

Italy - 50 Centesimi 1920

Moneta — Sun, 20 Aug 2017 21:42:25 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Another great Vittorio Emanuele III (1900 - 1946) coin design of a neo-classical flavor - the Roman goddess Aequitas in a heavy chariot drawn by four lions. The ANA's "Numismatist" for Oct 2020 (p.39) has a nice little feature on the coins of Vittorio Emanuele III at this: http://onlinedigitalpublishing.com/publication/frame.php?i=673359&p=&pn=&ver=html5

Italian Fascists 2 Lira - 1940

Moneta — Sat, 24 Jun 2017 20:18:12 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: These are a far cry from the early issues of Vittorio Emanuele III. There are three varieties of this design, the early nickel issue of 1936 - 1939 is very rare. The ANA's "Numismatist" for Oct 2020 (p.39) has a nice little feature on the coins of Vittorio Emanuele III at this: http://onlinedigitalpublishing.com/publication/frame.php?i=673359&p=&pn=&ver=html5

Italian Fascists 1 Lira - 1940

Moneta — Sat, 24 Jun 2017 20:11:59 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Continuing the tradition of bold national fascist art. I need to provide details as to which of the two types (magnetic or non-magnetic) this is one is, they are both very common. The ANA's "Numismatist" for Oct 2020 (p.39) has a nice little feature on the coins of Vittorio Emanuele III at this: http://onlinedigitalpublishing.com/publication/frame.php?i=673359&p=&pn=&ver=html5

Italy 10 Centesimi 50th Anniversary - 1911

Moneta — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 19:40:23 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: This one year type, along with 2, 5 & 50 Lire pieces, celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Kingdom of Italy and unification. Obverse shows the portrait of the King of Italy Vittorio Emanuele III. Reverse, are two standing figures: the female represents Italy and the male Rome. Italy has her left hand on a plow adorned with ears and fruits. Behind the figures there is a giant war ship. Design by Italian designer D. Trentacoste and Luigi Giorgi INC., 2 M. struck. The ANA's "Numismatist" for Oct 2020 (p.39) has a nice little feature on the coins of Vittorio Emanuele III at this: http://onlinedigitalpublishing.com/publication/frame.php?i=673359&p=&pn=&ver=html5

Italy 10 Lire Chariot - 1927

Moneta — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 19:30:23 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Another of the great neo-Classical designs of the early 20th C. Italian issues. Vittorio Emanuele III clearly appreciated the resurgence of wonderful coin design of the period that can be seen in various countries around the world, including the USA.

Italy - 2 Lire 1911 - 50th Anniversary

Moneta — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 19:16:41 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Italy issued a series of beautiful coins to celebrate the 50th Year of the Kingdom (unified; 1861 - 1911). The silver 2 Lire is affordable while the 5 Lire is very expensive in high grades, as is the gold 50 Lire. 1 M of these were struck. See the 10 Centesimi here in the Museum, which is the only other coin in the 1911 series. The ANA's "Numismatist" for Oct 2020 (p.39) has a nice little feature on the coins of Vittorio Emanuele III at this: http://onlinedigitalpublishing.com/publication/frame.php?i=673359&p=&pn=&ver=html5

Italy - Kingdom of Napoleon - 5 Soldi 1808

Moneta — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 18:50:13 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: The kingdom of Napoleon in Italy issued coins with a depiction of Napoleon from 1807 to 1814. The 5 Soldi was first issued in 1808 and this first issue came in two types. This is the much more common type with incuse stars on the edge, raised stars are scarce. All of the coins were minted in Milan, Venice or Bologna.

Italy 5 Centesimi - 1918

Moneta — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 18:15:49 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: A nice example that fits in well, but is not a part of the 50th Year of Unification celebration series. Vittorio Emanuele III, last year of issue with the highest mintage of 4.242 M.

Italy - Ancona 1849A

Moneta — Tue, 24 Jan 2017 18:46:59 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: A second example here in the Museum. Second Republic and the second break from Papal States' rule in Ancona. The first Republic of 1798 - 1799, inspired and aided by the French Revolution, saw re-strikes of Papal coinage during the siege and issues similar to the Roman Republic issues except with an "A" or Ancona included in the legend. This is an extremely nice specimen (better than KM) of this cast emergency coinage. OB: "REPUBBLICA ROMANA" with fasces topped with liberty cap. The 2nd Roman Republic was proclaimed on 9 Feb. 1849. 1849-A Baiocco, Ancona mint, of the Second Roman Republic which lasted from late 1848 when Pius IX fled (Dec 9) to Gaeta until July 1849 when French (and/or Austrian) troops restored the pope.

Siege of Mantua - 1799

Moneta — Sun, 18 Dec 2016 18:44:42 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: Part of the French Revolutionary Wars. Napoleon had occupied Mantua in northern Italy during the first siege in 1797. Now the Austrians were back with 40k troops vs the French forces of 10k holding Mantua. The Siege of Mantua (1799) was a four-month effort by the Austrian army to regain a presence in northern Italy after being excluded from that region by Napoleon Bonaparte through the successful French Siege of Mantua in 1797. In April 1799, the Austrians placed a military blockade around Mantua as part of the War of the Second Coalition with the intent of withering the French by attrition. While the diminishing food supplies and losses weakened the French army, the Austrians received reinforcements and attacked on 4 July 1799. By the end of the month, the French agreed to surrender. Therefore, this coin was crudely cast of brass and lead during the very short period of July 1799 (AN VII). This shows exceptional execution and preservation, these were also cast in 2 & 5 Soldo denominations. Obverse has a fasces topped with a Liberty Cap; legend is: ASSEDIO. D.-I. MANTOVA. Reverse legend is UN SOLDO DI MILAN.

Piedmont - Subalpine Gaul 5 Francs

Moneta — Sun, 20 Mar 2016 19:14:21 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: Piedmont Republic was established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1798. By 1799 Austria and Russian forces overthrew the republic. Date is AN 10 which equates to 1801, I do not know the reason for the incongruity of the date. Obverse legend is GAULE SUBALPINE The instrument shown being held by the allegorical figure of Libertas is a masons level and was also used as an angle measurement tool. It's a prominent symbol used during the French Revolution. The other female figure with Libertas is Aequitas. These were struck in AN9 & AN10. The Heart symbol is the mark of mintmaster Vittorio Modesto Paroletti at the mint in Turin Italy with 33k struck. The edge is engrailed with a leaf like pattern around. I'm still mystified on the exact relavance of ERIDANIA, most references indicate this a a female name but it must relate to the Piedmont area. Any help would be appreciated.

Italy - Piedmont Republic 2 Soldi, 1800

Moneta — Sun, 20 Mar 2016 18:58:31 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: NAZIONE PIEDMONTESE [Piedmontese Nation](OB) was established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1798. By 1799 Austria and Russian forces overthrew the republic. Date is Anno 9 which equates to 1800. Reverse legend is LIBERTA - EGUAGLANZA (means LIBERY - EQUALITY). The instrument shown is a masons level and was also used as an angle measurement tool. It's a prominent symbol used during the French Revolution as is the Liberty Cap atop the level. This a typical example, I've acquired a much better example, which can also be seen in the Moneta Museum.

Naples - Parthenopean Rep. 1799

Moneta — Sat, 12 Mar 2016 19:54:03 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: This fine and scarce piece is part of my series related to the French Revolution inspired revolutions among the Italian States. In this case the short lived Parthenopean Republic of Naples, Italy. Obverse legend is: 'REPUBBLICA NAPOLITANA' with fasces, spear, ax and Liberty Cap. The reverse legend around is 'ANNO SETTIMO DELLA LIBERTA.' which equates to 'Year AN7 (1799) of Liberty'. Inner wreath legend is: 'TOR/NESI/SEI', or 6 Tornesi, without the ZN mintmark (rare). Edge is engrailed with what appears to be slashed thru circles. The history of the revolution here is quite brutal, short, and involved the British Navy. The Parthenopean Republic (Italian: Repubblica Parthenopea) was a semi-autonomous Republic located within the Kingdom of Naples and supported by the French First Republic. The republic emerged during the French Revolutionary War after King Ferdinand IV fled before advancing French troops. The republic existed from 21 January to 13 June 1799, collapsing when Ferdinand returned to restore monarchial authority and forcibly subdued republican activities.

Italy - Roman Republic 1849 Half Baiocco

Moneta — Sun, 03 Jan 2016 16:27:40 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: Rebirth of the Roman Republic during the European Revolutions of 1848 - 1849. Appears overstruck on another coin. Rome mint - Scarce.

Italy - Roman Republic 1849 Half Baiocco

Moneta — Sun, 03 Jan 2016 16:27:40 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: Rebirth of the Roman Republic during the European Revolutions of 1848 - 1849. Appears overstruck on another coin. Rome mint - Scarce.

Italy - Roman Republic 1849 Half Baiocco

Moneta — Sun, 03 Jan 2016 16:27:40 -0500

by: Moneta

Description: Rebirth of the Roman Republic during the European Revolutions of 1848 - 1849. Appears overstruck on another coin. Rome mint - Scarce.

San Marino 500 Lire 1982 - BiMetallic

Moneta — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 18:04:10 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: REPUBBLICA DI SAN MARINO. Along with the regular 500L. issue of Italy, 1982, these coins are the first regular issue coins made of bi-metallic composition. This coin features the three smoking towers of San Marino on the obverse. The reverse is a F.A.O. series coin showing people engaged in agriculture labor and is known a "Social Conquest" theme for S. Marino. The edge, like the Italian coin, has alternating smooth and reeded areas. This coin was designed by A. Biancini.

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Italy 500 Lire 1982 - 1st Bi-Metallic

Moneta — Sun, 09 Aug 2015 17:40:56 -0400

by: Moneta

Description: This beautiful design, while common, holds the claim of being the first regular issue coin in the world in the now popular format of bi-metallic composition. The reverse features a depiction of the Piazza del Quirinale. The Quirinal Palace is the official residence of the President of the Italian Republic. What might also be a first is the inclusion of Braille lettering (⠨⠇⠄⠼⠑⠚⠚) on the reverse which represents the '500' lire denomination. I have yet to find who the distinctive portrait represents. With the feathered wing you could conclude it is a modern representation of Mercury, a common theme in the ancient Roman Republic. The coin was designed by Laura Cretara. I say this is the first bi-metallic coin but the mint in Rome also struck a bi-metallic coin for San Marino in 1982. That coin is also shown here in the Moneta Museum.