The 1938 5 Centesimi coin from Italy, minted in Rome, was issued during the reign of King Victor Emmanuel III. Made of bronze, this low-denomination coin belongs to the Fascist era and is notable for its strong political symbolism and compact format.
On the obverse, the coin features the bare head of Victor Emmanuel III facing right. The surrounding inscription reads VITT·EM·III·RE·E·IMP, signifying King and Emperor (of Italy). The engraver of the coin, Giuseppe Romagnoli, is credited with this classic portrait.
The reverse depicts a majestic eagle with outstretched wings, standing on a fasces — a Roman symbol of authority, here also associated with the Fascist regime. The crowned Savoy shield is positioned below, flanked by the value "C.5", the mintmark "R", the date "1938", and the Fascist year "XVI". The engraver’s name also appears at the bottom of the reverse.
Design details:
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Obverse: Portrait of Victor Emmanuel III facing right, with royal and imperial title
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Reverse: Eagle with fasces, Savoy shield, denomination and dates (Gregorian and Fascist), mintmark "R"
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Engraver: Giuseppe Romagnoli
Specifications:
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Country: Italy 🇮🇹
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Year: 1938
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Face Value: 5 Centesimi (0.05 ITL)
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Mint: Rome (R)
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Material: Bronze
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Weight: 3.25 g
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Diameter: 19.5 mm
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Thickness: 1.5 mm
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Edge: Plain
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Shape: Round
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Orientation: Coin alignment ↑↓
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Type: Standard circulation coin
This coin is ideal for collectors of Fascist-era coinage, Italian royal portrait coins, and pre-WWII bronze issues. Despite its small size, the design carries a strong visual and political message, characteristic of Italian coins from the late 1930s.
