Italian 200 Lire Commemorative Coin (Esposizione Mondiale di Filatelia Tematica)
Coin/Bullion · Istituto Poligrafico e Zecca dello Stato (Italian State Mint), Rome, Italy
Pattern: Italian Commemorative Coinage, issued for the 1992 Genoa Thematic Philatelic Exhibition
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Istituto Poligrafico e Zecca dello Stato (Italian State Mint), Rome, Italy
Material
Acmonital (Stainless steel/alloy commonly used for Italian subsidiary coinage) or Italma; note that while presented for analysis, standard circulation versions of this specific coin are typically base metal rather than silver.
Dimensions
Standard 200 Lire coin dimensions: diameter approximately 24 mm, weight approximately 5 grams.
Description
An Italian commemorative 200 Lire coin struck in 1992 to celebrate the World Exhibition of Thematic Philately in Genoa. The obverse or commemorative face features a dynamic design incorporating a ship and philatelic motifs, encapsulating the spirit of maritime exploration and stamp collecting associated with Genoa.
Key Features
Commemorative theme celebrating the Genoa 1992 philatelic exhibition, clear '1992' and 'R' mint marks, and the distinct 'L. 200' denomination.
Material & Composition
Acmonital (Stainless steel/alloy commonly used for Italian subsidiary coinage) or Italma; note that while presented for analysis, standard circulation versions of this specific coin are typically base metal rather than silver.
Finish & Decoration
Standard coin finish with a raised stamped design featuring a stylized sailboat and thematic philatelic elements, surrounded by the inscription ESPOSIZIONE MONDIALE DI FILATELIA TEMATICA GENOVA 1992 and the denomination L. 200.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Marked with the 'R' mintmark for Rome, the year 1992, and designer/engraver initials.
Construction Details
Machine-minted and die-struck by the national mint.
Functional Features
Standard circulating or commemorative monetary denomination.
Handle & Grip Details
Plain reeded or smooth edge typical of standard decimal coinage.
Craftsmanship Details
Crisp strike and clean lettering typical of modern mass-produced state mint coinage.
Authentication Indicators
Standard mint-issued lettering, precise weight, and official 'R' mintmark of the Rome mint.
Origin & Manufacturing
Rome, Italy, produced by the official state mint.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century (Modern Era, 1992)
Age Estimate
Dated 1992
Cultural Significance
Celebrates international philately (stamp collecting) and highlights Italy's tradition of issuing artistic commemorative currency to mark global cultural events.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent condition with minor surface handling marks consistent with being stored or gently circulated.
Value Estimate
Modest collector value, typically ranging from face value to a few dollars depending on exact grade and numismatic demand.
Care & Maintenance
Store in a dry, inert coin flip or holder; avoid harsh chemical dips or abrasive polishing to preserve the original mint surface.
Similar Pieces
Other Italian commemorative 200 Lire coins issued throughout the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s for various national milestones and expositions.
Interesting Facts
Genoa is historically renowned as the birthplace of Christopher Columbus and a major maritime republic, making it a fitting host for a world philatelic exhibition themed around exploration and communication.