Catalogo
| Emittente | Vatican City |
|---|---|
| Anno | 1929-1937 |
| Tipo | Standard circulation coin |
| Valore | 2 Lire (2 VAL) |
| Valuta | Lira (1929-2001) |
| Composizione | Nickel |
| Peso | 10.1 g |
| Diametro | 29 mm |
| Spessore | 2.10 mm |
| Forma | Round |
| Tecnica | Milled |
| Orientamento | |
| Incisore/i | Aurelio Mistruzzi |
| In circolazione fino al | |
| Riferimento/i | KM#6 |
| Descrizione del dritto | Pivs XI coat of arms (crossed keys, with a cross surmounting tiara), divided date below. |
|---|---|
| Scrittura del dritto | Latin |
| Legenda del dritto | PIVS·XI·PONT MAX·AN·XV 1935 |
| Descrizione del rovescio | Standing figure - Lamb on shoulders of young shepherd |
| Scrittura del rovescio | Latin |
| Legenda del rovescio | STATO DELLA CIT TA` DEL VATICANO L. 2 MISTRVZZI A۰MOTTI۰INC۰ |
| Bordo | Smooth |
| Zecca | |
| Tiratura |
1929 - VIII - 10 000 1930 - IX - 50 000 1931 - X - 50 000 1932 - XI - 50 000 1934 - XIII - 50 000 1935 - XIV - 70 000 1936 - XV - 40 000 1937 - XVI - 70 000 |
| ID Numisquare | 1502139720 |
| Informazioni aggiuntive |
Historical Context: This 2 Lire coin, issued 1929-1937, marks a pivotal era for the Holy See. Its debut followed the 1929 Lateran Treaty, establishing Vatican City as an independent sovereign state. Pope Pius XI (Achille Ratti) became its first sovereign, formally resolving the "Roman Question" enduring since 1870. This coin stands as a primary numismatic testament to the Vatican's restored temporal sovereignty and its re-emergence as an international actor.
Artistry: The design is attributed to Giuseppe Romagnoli, a prominent Italian medalist known for his academic realist style. The obverse features a dignified bust of Pope Pius XI, facing right, rendered with classical precision. The reverse depicts Saint Peter standing, holding the Keys of Heaven, a potent symbol of papal authority. Romagnoli's work showcases meticulous detail and traditional iconography, reflecting the authoritative design chosen for the new state's foundational coinage.
Technical/Grading: Struck in nickel, this 10.1-gram, 29mm coin requires careful examination for grading. Key high-points on the obverse include Pius XI's hair above the ear, the earlobe, and mozzetta folds. On the reverse, focus on Saint Peter's facial features, hands, keys' details, and drapery folds. While generally well-struck, minor weakness can occur on highest relief. Nickel's hardness can show wear prominently, making sharp details and pristine fields particularly sought after in higher grades.