Up for sale is an authentic 1940 Italian 20 Centesimi coin, minted during the reign of King Vittorio Emanuele III, in the "Impero" (Empire) series struck during the WWII period.
Details:
Country: Italy (Kingdom)
Ruler: Vittorio Emanuele III
Year: 1940 (Year XVIII of the Fascist Era)
Mint: Rome (mintmark R)
Composition: Acmonital (stainless steel), magnetic
Weight: ~4.0-4.1g
Diameter: ~21.5-21.7mm
Edge: Reeded (rigato)
Design:
Obverse: Portrait of King Vittorio Emanuele III facing left, with inscription "VITT • EM • III • RE • E • IMP" (King and Emperor)
Reverse: Head of a woman personifying Italy (often referred to as "Minerva" by collectors), facing right, with a fasces topped by the Savoy crowned shield beside her. Denomination "C.20" and the mint year appear below.
Description:
A striking piece of Italian history from the WWII period, this coin was struck in acmonital — a special nickel-free steel alloy developed by Italy due to wartime metal shortages and international sanctions. The obverse legend "RE E IMP" (King and Emperor) reflects Italy's short-lived colonial claim over Ethiopia. A fascinating addition to any WWII-era or Italian numismatic collection.
Condition as pictures