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The Italy Sardinia 20 Lire gold coin, issued between 1821 and 1831 during the reign of King Charles Felix, represents a significant period in Italian numismatic history. Charles Felix, who was the King of Sardinia from 1821 until his death in 1831, played a crucial role in the early 19th-century history of the Kingdom of Sardinia. Sardinia, at the time, was one of the most powerful states in Italy, and under Charles Felix’s reign, the coinage system was overhauled to reflect the changing political landscape. The 20 Lire coin, struck in gold, was among the highest denominations of currency during this era and became an important part of the kingdom’s monetary system.
Charles Felix was the last ruler of the House of Savoy before the unification of Italy. He is known for his relatively conservative policies, but his reign also laid the foundation for the future prosperity and stability of Sardinia. The Sardinia 20 Lire gold coin was issued to reflect the value and stability of the kingdom’s economy during his reign. The coin is an excellent example of the era’s coinage, featuring intricate designs and the quality that was characteristic of the Italian minting traditions at the time.
The design of the Sardinia 20 Lire is marked by classical elements that were typical of coins struck under the influence of the House of Savoy. The obverse of the coin features a portrait of King Charles Felix, facing left in a dignified and regal pose. The inscription surrounding the portrait reads “CAROLUS FELIX D. G. SARDIN. REY” (Charles Felix by the grace of God, King of Sardinia). This inscription serves as a clear indication of the king’s divine right to rule, a concept central to the monarchical ideology of the time. The King’s portrait is finely detailed, and his facial features, hair, and clothing are rendered with remarkable precision, showcasing the high level of craftsmanship that went into the design of these coins.
On the reverse side, the coin features a large shield, which is a prominent symbol of the House of Savoy, surrounded by a wreath of laurel. The shield is supported by two rampant lions, another traditional element in the heraldic design of the kingdom. The inscription around the shield reads “REGNANTE CAROLO FELICE” (Reigned by Charles Felix). This design highlights the monarchy’s authority and power, underscoring the importance of the king’s rule in the kingdom’s identity. The reverse design also incorporates the year of minting, which in this case varies from coin to coin, depending on the specific year of issue.
The minting of the Sardinia 20 Lire gold coin took place at the Turin Mint, which was the primary mint for the Kingdom of Sardinia. The mint produced coins of exceptional quality, and the 20 Lire coin is a prime example of this craftsmanship. The Turin Mint was known for its attention to detail and its ability to produce coins that were both artistically and technically superior. The mintmark, indicating the location of production, is typically found on the reverse of the coin, along with other marks to ensure the coin’s authenticity and quality.
The mintage of the Sardinia 20 Lire gold coin is relatively limited, with only a few years of production during the reign of Charles Felix. The total mintage for these coins is difficult to estimate, as records from the early 19th century are not always complete or easily accessible. However, the 20 Lire gold coin is considered to be a relatively rare piece, especially in higher grades, due to the limited number of coins struck and the fact that many were melted down over the years. The rarity of these coins, combined with their historical significance, has made them a highly desirable item for collectors of Italian and European coins.
The condition of the Sardinia 20 Lire gold coin can vary significantly depending on the specific example. Coins that are in higher grades, such as those that are classified as Extremely Fine (EF) or Uncirculated (UNC), are highly sought after by collectors and can command premium prices. These coins retain most of their original luster and have well-defined details, particularly in the portrait of Charles Felix and the surrounding inscriptions. Lower-grade examples, such as those in Fine (F) or Good (G) condition, are more commonly found, but they may show significant wear, especially on the high points of the design.
Coins in lower grades may have worn details, particularly in the features of the king’s portrait and the heraldic symbols on the reverse. However, even in lower grades, the Sardinia 20 Lire gold coin still holds significant historical value, and collectors often appreciate the coin’s rich heritage and craftsmanship. The wear on the coin is a reflection of its age, as well as the fact that these coins were used in circulation for many years during the 19th century.
The gold content of the Sardinia 20 Lire coin is an important factor in its value. The coin is composed of 90% gold, with a total weight of 6.45 grams of pure gold. The gold content makes the coin not only a collectible item but also a valuable piece of precious metal. As a result, the coin’s value is influenced by both its numismatic importance and the current market value of gold. The weight and purity of the gold used in the coin’s production also make it a tangible investment for those interested in precious metals, as it offers a combination of artistic and financial value.
Over the years, the Sardinia 20 Lire gold coin has become a highly coveted item among collectors of Italian coins, as well as those with a broader interest in European numismatics. The coin’s historical significance, combined with its exceptional design and craftsmanship, makes it a timeless piece that represents the grandeur of the Kingdom of Sardinia during the early 19th century. For collectors, the coin serves as a tangible connection to the past, a reminder of the monarchy and the rich history of Italy before the country’s unification in the 19th century.
The Sardinia 20 Lire gold coin remains a testament to the artistry and skill of the Italian minting tradition. Its detailed design, historical context, and rarity make it a sought-after piece for numismatists and collectors around the world. Whether found in higher grades or in more worn conditions, the Sardinia 20 Lire gold coin is a piece of history that holds significant value both as a collectible item and as a representation of the kingdom’s legacy under Charles Felix.