A historic silver coin from Italy, issued in 1958 as part of the 500 Lire series, which remained in circulation until the introduction of the Euro. This highly detailed coin features an iconic maritime theme on the obverse and a Renaissance-inspired bust on the reverse.
The obverse showcases Christopher Columbus' ships – the Nina, Pinta, and Santa Maria – sailing to the right, symbolizing Italy’s rich maritime history. The denomination L.500 is inscribed below, along with the mint mark "R" for Rome.
The reverse presents a woman in Renaissance attire, symbolizing Italy, surrounded by 19 shields, each representing an Italian region. The design is inspired by Pisanello’s Medaglia di Cecilia, a famous Renaissance medal.
The edge inscription includes the words "REPVBBLICA ITALIANA", flanked by three stars on each side, and the coin's date.
Specifications:
🔹 Country: Italy
🔹 Ruling Authority: Republic (1946-present)
🔹 Year of Issue: 1958
🔹 Denomination: 500 Lire (500 ITL)
🔹 Composition: Silver (.835) (Copper .165)
🔹 Weight: 11 g
🔹 Diameter: 29.3 mm
🔹 Thickness: 2 mm
🔹 Shape: Round
🔹 Edge: Raised lettering ("REPVBBLICA ITALIANA") with the date within six stars
🔹 Technique: Milled
🔹 Orientation: Coin alignment
🔹 Obverse Engraver: Guido Veroi
🔹 Reverse Engraver: Pietro Giampaoli
🔹 Mint: Rome (R), Italy
This 1958-dated 500 Lire coin was demonetized on February 28, 2002, with the adoption of the Euro but remains a highly sought-after collectible, particularly for its historical significance and artistic design.
