The old coinage that belonged to Italy until 2002, the Lira, has numerous examples of coins created to be put into circulation in order to celebrate a certain event.
Why collect commemorative coins?
Commemorative coins are legal coins issued by a country to celebrate a certain event or remember a prominent person. The peculiarity of these coins is the limited edition, which makes them rare and sought after; they have a unique and original design that represents the event or anniversary that is celebrated; the value of commemorative coins can vary depending on the metal with which they are minted, their circulation, the demand from collectors and the conditions in which they are found. Some commemorative coins can be worth much more than their face value.
These commemorative coins offer a glimpse into important events and people in history, they are important because they often represent works of art in their own right, with detailed engravings and precious metals, the value of which can increase over time, making them an attractive investment.
We know the 500 Lire coin for the centenary of the Unification of Italy
Among the many commemorative coins belonging to the Lira, there is the 500 silver lire which has been minted several times to celebrate events or in memory of important events or people over the years. In particular, we are talking about the 500 Lire silver coin for the centenary of the Unification of Italy.
This commemorative coin was issued in 1961 to celebrate the centenary of the Unification of Italy, dating back to 1861. On the obverse, the year 1861 is shown at the top right, while the year of minting is shown at the bottom left. It is made of silver and has a diameter of 29 mm. In the centre, however, the personification of Italy is represented, sitting on a Corinthian capital, holding an olive branch in her right hand, while in her left, a helmet. Around the figure, the writing REPUBBLICA ITALIANA, and in the exergue, the designer’s signature, TRUE (Guido Veroi). On the reverse, there is a quadriga (a chariot pulled by four horses) led by Victory; above the quadriga, the coat of arms of the Italian Republic; while below, the writing CENTENARIO UNITA D’ITALIA and the year 1961 are indicated.
The coin was made of 835/1000 silver, has a striped edge and the design was entirely handled by Guido Veroi, as reported before.
It is a coin that is not exactly widespread, considering the circulation which in 1961 had the circulation of 2,000,000 specimens, decreased the following year with 1,500,000 specimens, finally reaching 500,000 specimens in 1963.
The value of a 500 Lire Silver Centenary of the Unification of Italy can vary depending on its condition and silver market prices. In general, these coins are worth between 10 and 50 euros. However, rare or well-preserved specimens can sell for much higher prices.
