Catalog
| Issuer | Italy |
|---|---|
| Year | 1861-1867 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 2 Centesimi (0.02 ITL) |
| Currency | Lira (1861-2001) |
| Composition | Bronze (Cu 96%, Sn 4%) |
| Weight | 2 g |
| Diameter | 20 mm |
| Thickness | 0.8 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Engraver(s) | Giuseppe Ferraris |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#2 |
| Obverse description | Head of King Vittorio Emanuele II left. Below the neck the initial F of the engraver. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | VITTORIO EMANUELE II RE D`ITALIA F. |
| Reverse description | Value and date within two branches, one of laurel and the other of oak. Above the Italy star and below the sign of the mint Mint marks: M for Milan (km# 2.1) N for Naples (km# 2.2) T for Turin (km# 2.3) |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | 2 CENTESIMI 1861 M |
| Edge | Smooth |
| Mint |
M Milan, Italy N Naples, Italy T Turin, Italy |
| Mintage |
1861 M - KM#2.1 - 37 500 000 1861 N - KM#2.2 - 23 055 000 1862 N - KM#2.2 - 33 194 953 1867 M - KM#2.1 - 54 211 919 1867 T - KM#2.3 - 5 000 000 |
| Numisquare ID | 5423826150 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This 2 Centesimi coin, issued between 1861 and 1867, embodies the pivotal unification of Italy. Victor Emmanuel II, previously King of Sardinia-Piedmont, became the first King of a unified Italy in 1861. This coinage was fundamental in establishing a national currency and identity for the new kingdom, replacing diverse regional currencies. Its issuance symbolized the consolidation of the Risorgimento, marking the birth of a modern Italian state.
Artistry: The coin's design is attributed to Giuseppe Ferraris, a prominent engraver whose work reflects the neoclassical realism prevalent in 19th-century European numismatics. The obverse features a dignified, bare head portrait of Victor Emmanuel II facing left, exuding authority and national pride. The reverse displays the crowned Savoy shield, emblematic of the ruling house, encircled by a wreath of laurel and oak leaves, signifying victory and strength. The aesthetic is one of stately simplicity, befitting a nascent nation.
Technical/Grading: Struck in bronze (Cu 96%, Sn 4%), this 2-gram, 20mm coin presents specific grading considerations. Key high-points for wear on the obverse include Victor Emmanuel II's hair, cheekbone, and ear. On the reverse, attention should be paid to the details of the crown, the intricate lines of the Savoy shield, and the individual leaves and berries within the wreath. Strong strikes will exhibit sharp definition; weaker strikes, common with bronze issues, may show softness, particularly in the wreath and hair details.