San Marino 100 Lire Circulated Silver-Colored Coin c. 1978
Coin/Bullion · Istituto Poligrafico e Zecca dello Stato (Italian State Mint)
Pattern: Repubblica di San Marino 100 Lire Circulation Issue, 1978
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Istituto Poligrafico e Zecca dello Stato (Italian State Mint)
Material
Acmonital (Stainless Steel / Nickel-Brass alloy commonly used for Italian and Sammarinese minor coinage), not genuine precious silver.
Dimensions
Standard 100 Lire dimensions: approximately 27.8 mm in diameter, weighing roughly 8.0 grams.
Description
A classic circulated 100 Lire coin from the Republic of San Marino minted in 1978. The reverse displays the iconic Three Towers of San Marino (Guaita, Cesta, and Montale) perched atop Mount Titano, framed by the country name, the denomination 'L.100', and the issue year. Though often casually mistaken for silver due to its bright metallic luster, the composition is actually an industrial alloy like Acmonital.
Key Features
Features the distinct imagery of the Three Towers of San Marino and clear 1978 date stamp.
Material & Composition
Acmonital (Stainless Steel / Nickel-Brass alloy commonly used for Italian and Sammarinese minor coinage), not genuine precious silver.
Finish & Decoration
Standard circulation strike with a reeded edge and a raised relief depiction of the Three Towers of San Marino on the reverse.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Inscribed text 'REPUBBLICA DI SAN MARINO', denomination 'L.100', and year date '1978'.
Construction Details
Machine-struck via high-pressure coin presses at the state mint facility.
Functional Features
Standard circulating currency coin with a reeded edge to deter clipping.
Handle & Grip Details
None applicable.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard high-volume mint production showing clean die strikes and consistent lettering.
Authentication Indicators
Standard mint-issued details, precise lettering, and correct weight/dimensions for a late 1970s Sammarinese 100 Lire coin.
Origin & Manufacturing
Rome, Italy (produced for the Republic of San Marino)
Era & Period
Late 20th Century (Cold War Era, 1978)
Age Estimate
Dated 1978
Cultural Significance
Reflects the sovereignty and national symbols of San Marino, particularly its historic fortifications atop Mount Titano.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good circulated condition with visible surface abrasions, scuffs, and minor wear from general monetary circulation.
Value Estimate
Low collector value, typically ranging from $1.00 to $5.00 USD depending on exact grade, as it lacks precious silver content.
Care & Maintenance
Store in a dry numismatic flip or coin capsule to prevent further environmental toning and surface scratches.
Similar Pieces
Italian 100 Lire coins of the same era, which share identical metallic composition and sizing due to the monetary pact between Italy and San Marino.
Interesting Facts
San Marino, one of the smallest and oldest republics in the world, issues its own coinage in agreement with Italy, making Sammarinese coins popular with European numismatists.