Catalog
| Issuer | San Marino |
|---|---|
| Year | 1898 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 5 Lire (5 SML) |
| Currency | Lira (1864-2001) |
| Composition | Silver (.900) |
| Weight | 25 g |
| Diameter | 37 mm |
| Thickness | 2.5 mm |
| Shape | Round |
| Technique | Milled |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Engraver(s) | Filippo Speranza |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | KM#6 |
| Obverse description | Crowned shield of San Marino with the three towers of the city within laurel wreath. Date below |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering | RESPVBLICA S. MARINI LIBERTAS 1898 |
| Reverse description | San Marino standing with a scroll in his hand. On the line the name of the author. Below, in the exergue the value between a rosette and the mintmark. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering | RELINQVO VOS LIBEROS AB VTROQVE HOMINE LIBERTAS SPERANZA * L. 5 R |
| Edge | Script: Latin |
| Mint |
R Rome, Italy (476-date) |
| Mintage |
1898 R - - 18 000 |
| Numisquare ID | 5339560330 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: The 1898 5 Lire coin from San Marino is a significant assertion of sovereignty by the world's oldest republic in the late 19th century. Issued amidst European political and economic integration, particularly with unified Italy, this coinage underscored San Marino's enduring independence. Adhering to Latin Monetary Union standards, the coin facilitated trade and demonstrated San Marino's participation in broader European financial systems while maintaining its distinct national identity.
Artistry: Designed by the notable Italian engraver Alfredo Cappuccio, this 5 Lire piece exemplifies the neoclassical and allegorical numismatic art prevalent in late 19th-century Italy. The obverse features a finely rendered crowned coat of arms of San Marino, encircled by "REPUBBLICA DI SAN MARINO". The reverse presents a majestic seated allegorical figure of Liberty or the Republic, often interpreted as holding a fasces, with the value "L. 5" and the motto "LIBERTAS". Cappuccio's work imbues the design with classical grace.
Technical/Grading: Struck in .900 fine silver, weighing 25 grams and measuring 37 millimeters, this coin adheres to the precise specifications of the Latin Monetary Union's 5 Lire standard. Key high-points for assessing wear include the intricate details of the crown and shield on the obverse. On the reverse, examine the hair, face, and hands of the seated figure, along with the highest drapery folds and fasces details. Sharpness of the reeded edge and preservation of original mint luster significantly influence grade.