-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 42317
Checkout
The Vatican City 100 Lire coin of 1959, cataloged as KM#64.1, is a significant numismatic piece from a notable era in Vatican history. Issued during the papacy of Pope John XXIII, who began his reign in 1958, this coin is emblematic of a period marked by substantial changes and modernization within the Catholic Church. Pope John XXIII’s pontificate is renowned for initiating the Second Vatican Council, which sought to address and reform various aspects of Church doctrine and practices. The 1959 100 Lire coin captures this transformative period through its design and issuance, reflecting both the spiritual and symbolic essence of the era.
The obverse of the 1959 100 Lire coin features a detailed and dignified portrait of Pope John XXIII. The Pope is depicted wearing the Papal tiara, a traditional symbol of his supreme authority as the head of the Catholic Church. The portrait is rendered with great artistry, capturing the Pope’s calm and authoritative demeanor. Surrounding the portrait is the inscription “IOANNES XXIII P.M.,” which identifies him by name and his title as Pontifex Maximus. This design element highlights the significance of Pope John XXIII’s role and his impact on the Church during a time of significant reform and engagement.
On the reverse side of the coin, the design prominently displays the Vatican coat of arms. The coat of arms is featured within a central shield, flanked by the crossed keys of Saint Peter, which symbolize the spiritual authority of the Pope. Above the shield is the Papal tiara, reinforcing the ecclesiastical symbolism of the design. The denomination “100 LIRE” is clearly marked, along with the year of minting, 1959. This reverse design emphasizes the continuity of Vatican traditions while also marking the coin's value within the context of the period’s economic and symbolic framework.
The 1959 100 Lire coin was minted by the Vatican Mint, which is renowned for its high-quality production and meticulous craftsmanship. The Vatican Mint has a longstanding tradition of producing coins that reflect both the artistic and spiritual values of the Vatican. The total mintage of the 1959 100 Lire coin was relatively limited, contributing to its rarity and appeal among collectors. The limited issuance reflects the Vatican’s careful approach to coin production during a period of substantial change, ensuring that each coin maintains its historical significance and collectible value.
In terms of condition, the 1959 100 Lire coin is often found in Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) quality. Coins in BU condition exhibit their original mint luster, with no signs of wear or circulation. The coin’s surfaces are characterized by a smooth, reflective finish that enhances the visibility of its intricate design details. For the 1959 100 Lire, this high-quality condition ensures that the portrait of Pope John XXIII and the Vatican coat of arms are presented with exceptional clarity and brilliance. Collectors highly value BU coins for their excellent preservation and the vibrant presentation of their design features.
The Vatican City 100 Lire coin of 1959 is a significant collectible that captures a key moment in the history of Vatican coinage. Its design, featuring Pope John XXIII and the Vatican coat of arms, reflects the artistic and symbolic elements of the era. The coin’s limited mintage and high-quality BU condition contribute to its desirability among collectors. As a representation of the Vatican’s monetary system during a time of modernization and reform, the 1959 100 Lire coin remains a valuable and cherished piece in the study of Vatican numismatics.