Italian 10 Centesimi Silver Coin c. 1860-1900
Coin/Bullion · Italian State Mint (Zecca dello Stato)
Pattern: Kingdom of Italy Vittorio Emanuele II or Umberto I Circulating Coinage
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Italian State Mint (Zecca dello Stato)
Material
Likely .835 Silver standard commonly used for minor European silver coinage of the period
Dimensions
Standard small silver coin diameter approximately 17-19 mm and weight around 2.5 grams
Description
A small historic silver coin from the Kingdom of Italy, featuring clear heraldic elements such as the crowned shield and cross on the visible side along with the denomination 10 centesimi. Such coins circulated widely during the unification and early industrial period of Italy.
Key Features
Crowned shield motif, prominent numeral 10, small denomination silver size
Material & Composition
Likely .835 Silver standard commonly used for minor European silver coinage of the period
Finish & Decoration
Standard circulation strike with milled edge, featuring the Royal coat of arms and denomination on the reverse
Hallmarks & Stamps
Mint marks, denomination '10', and royal inscriptions depending on the specific reigning monarch
Construction Details
Machine-minted coin struck using high-pressure coin presses
Functional Features
Standard circulating monetary medium of exchange
Handle & Grip Details
None, standard small coin profile
Craftsmanship Details
Precise mechanical die sinking and uniform striking typical of European state mints in the late 1800s
Authentication Indicators
Correct diameter, appropriate metallic resonance, standard weight, and period-accurate die-struck lettering
Origin & Manufacturing
Rome or Milan, Italy
Era & Period
Victorian / Umbertine Era (Late 19th Century)
Age Estimate
Circa 1861-1900 based on standard royal portrait and heraldic design types
Cultural Significance
Represents the monetary system and national identity of the newly unified Kingdom of Italy in the late 19th century
Condition Notes
Moderate circulation wear with rounded details and surface marks consistent with everyday monetary use
Value Estimate
Modest numismatic value ranging from $5 to $25 USD depending heavily on exact year, mint mark, and preservation grade
Care & Maintenance
Store in a protective coin flip or capsule; avoid cleaning or polishing to preserve numismatic integrity and original surfaces
Similar Pieces
Other European small denomination silver coins such as French 50 centimes or British threepence from the same era
Interesting Facts
Issued during the turbulent and exciting period of the Risorgimento and the unification of Italy under a single crown