The 1940 1 Lira coin from Italy, issued under the reign of Victor Emmanuel III, offers a striking mix of regal portraiture and political symbolism. Minted in Rome and composed of non-magnetic acmonital (austenitic stainless steel), this coin was part of Fascist-era circulation and remains a key piece in any historical numismatic collection.
On the obverse, the coin displays the right-facing portrait of King Victor Emmanuel III, with his full title VITTORIO EMANUELE III RE E IMP (King and Emperor) encircling the head. The engraver’s name G. Romagnoli is inscribed below the neck.
The reverse features a commanding eagle perched on a branch, wings outstretched, facing right. Below the eagle lies a vertical fasces with an axe, and beneath it the Savoy shield, dividing the denomination and mintmark. The date "1940" and the Fascist era year "XVIII" are included on either side.
Design details:
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Obverse: Portrait of Victor Emmanuel III with full title and engraver's signature
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Reverse: Eagle with fasces and Savoy shield, denomination "L.1", year 1939 and Fascist calendar year XVIII, mintmark "R"
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Designer: Giuseppe Romagnoli
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Engraver: Giuseppe Romagnoli
Specifications:
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Country: Italy 🇮🇹
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Year: 1940
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Face Value: 1 Lira (1 ITL)
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Mint: Rome (R)
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Material: Acmonital (non-magnetic)
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Weight: 8.0 g
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Diameter: 26.7 mm
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Thickness: 2.0 mm
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Edge: Reeded
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Shape: Round
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Orientation: Coin alignment ↑↓
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Type: Standard circulation coin
This coin is a standout piece for those collecting Fascist-era Italy, symbolic European coinage, or pre-WWII historical currency. Its powerful imagery and historical importance make it a valued addition to advanced collections.
