1971 Republic of Italy 50 Lire Coin (Vulcan/Hephaestus)
Coin/Bullion (Numismatic) · Istituto Poligrafico e Zecca dello Stato (IPZS) - The Italian State Mint, Rome.
Pattern: Standard Circulation Series (Vulcan Type), designed by Giuseppe Romagnoli and engraved by Pietro Giampaoli.
Type
Coin/Bullion (Numismatic)
Maker
Istituto Poligrafico e Zecca dello Stato (IPZS) - The Italian State Mint, Rome.
Material
Acmonital (Acciaio Monetario Italiano), a stainless steel alloy. This specific item contains 0% silver.
Dimensions
Diameter: 24.8 mm; Thickness: 1.95 mm; Weight: 6.25 grams.
Description
An iconic Italian circulation coin featuring a classical depiction of Vulcan, the god of fire and metalworking, symbolizing Italy's post-war industrial labor and strength. Though visually similar to silver, its steel composition gives it a distinct cold, magnetic property and high durability.
Key Features
High-relief neoclassical figure of Vulcan; 'Acmonital' steel material; iconic 'L.50' denomination font.
Material & Composition
Acmonital (Acciaio Monetario Italiano), a stainless steel alloy. This specific item contains 0% silver.
Finish & Decoration
Satin finish with raised relief. Modernist style. Features a muscular Vulcan at an anvil with hammer raised. Border is smooth/plain.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Engraved 'R' (Mint mark for Rome) at the 4 o'clock position; date '1971' and denomination 'L.50'.
Construction Details
Industrial die-struck minting process; machine-made in large quantities.
Functional Features
Standard currency unit (pre-Euro); reeded or plain edge (this appears plain/smooth).
Handle & Grip Details
None (solid coin form).
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-work showing fine muscular detail in the central figure, characteristic of Giuseppe Romagnoli's mid-century aesthetic.
Authentication Indicators
Correct strike depth for 1971; presence of the 'R' Rome mint mark; characteristic metallic luster of Italian steel coinage.
Origin & Manufacturing
Rome, Italy; traditional state-governed minting facility.
Era & Period
Modern Republic Period (1946-2001); specifically the post-WWII economic recovery era of Italy.
Age Estimate
Dated 1971; approximately 53 years old.
Cultural Significance
A staple of Italian daily life before the adoption of the Euro in 2002; represents the 'Miracolo Economico' (Italian economic miracle).
Condition Notes
Very Fine (VF) to Extremely Fine (EF). Visible minor surface scratches (bag marks) and slight peripheral tarnish or corrosion spots at the bottom edge.
Value Estimate
$0.50 - $2.00 USD. This is a common circulation date with high mintage (approx. 35 million produced).
Care & Maintenance
Keep in a dry environment to prevent spotting; do not clean with silver polish as this is steel; handle by edges only.
Similar Pieces
100 Lire (Minerva), 200 Lire (Work/Gear), and 500 Lire (Silver Caravels). Only the 500 Lire of this era is typically made of silver.
Interesting Facts
The design was so popular it remained in use from 1954 until 1989. Tiny 'Micro' versions were produced in the early 90s due to inflation.