Sardinia Italy Gold 20 Lire Vittorio Emanuele II Avg Circ (Random Year, 1850-1861)

The Sardinia Italy Gold 20 Lire Vittorio Emanuele II coin offers both numismatic charm and historical weight, struck during a crucial period leading up to Italian unification. Minted between 1850 and 1861, these coins contain .1867 troy ounces of .900 fine gold and are offered in Average Circulated condition, showcasing their role as everyday money in mid-19th century Europe.

Before Italy’s unification, the Kingdom of Sardinia played a leading role in the Risorgimento movement. Vittorio Emanuele II, who reigned as King of Sardinia from 1849, became the first King of a unified Italy in 1861, a title not held since the fall of the Roman Empire. Known as the “Father of the Fatherland,” his leadership and alliance with statesman Count Cavour helped pave the way for a modern Italian state. The gold 20 Lire coins struck under his reign are direct links to this era of transformation, serving as precursors to Italy’s national currency once unification was achieved.

• Contains .1867 troy oz of .900 fine gold
• Minted between 1850–1861 at the Turin Mint
• Denomination: 20 Lire
• Average Circulated condition
• Obverse: Portrait of Vittorio Emanuele II facing left, with Latin inscriptions naming him “King of Sardinia, Cyprus, and Jerusalem.” The year of mintage and engraver’s name appear below.
• Reverse: The crowned arms of Sardinia, encircled by a wreath of laurel and oak, topped with the Star of Italy. The denomination “20 LIRE” flanks the shield.