2 Centesimi - Victor Emmanuel II

Emisor Italy
Año 1861-1867
Tipo Standard circulation coin
Valor 2 Centesimi (0.02 ITL)
Moneda Lira (1861-2001)
Composición Bronze (Cu 96%, Sn 4%)
Peso 2 g
Diámetro 20 mm
Grosor 0.8 mm
Forma Round
Técnica Milled
Orientación Coin alignment ↑↓
Grabador(es) Giuseppe Ferraris
En circulación hasta
Referencia(s) KM#2
Descripción del anverso Head of King Vittorio Emanuele II left. Below the neck the initial F of the engraver.
Escritura del anverso Latin
Leyenda del anverso VITTORIO EMANUELE II RE D`ITALIA F.
Descripción del reverso 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)
Escritura del reverso Latin
Leyenda del reverso 2 CENTESIMI 1861 M
Canto Smooth
Casa de moneda M
Milan, Italy
N
Naples, Italy
T
Turin, Italy
Tirada 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
ID de Numisquare 5423826150
Información adicional

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.

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