-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 43360
The Vatican City 2 Lire coin of 1962, cataloged as KM#59, is a remarkable piece of numismatic history, reflecting both the artistry and significance of Vatican coinage during the early 1960s. Issued under the papacy of Pope John XXIII, this coin represents a period of substantial ecclesiastical and historical importance. The early 1960s were marked by significant events such as the Second Vatican Council, which brought about profound changes in the Catholic Church and its global outreach. The 2 Lire coin from 1962 captures the essence of this transformative era.
The obverse of the 1962 2 Lire coin features a detailed and respectful portrait of Pope John XXIII. The Pope is depicted in profile, exuding a sense of wisdom and leadership that was characteristic of his papacy. Surrounding the portrait is the inscription “IOANNES XXIII PONT. MAX.”, which translates to “John XXIII, Supreme Pontiff.” This inscription affirms the Pope’s position as the leader of the Catholic Church. The artistic rendering of Pope John XXIII is finely detailed, reflecting the high level of craftsmanship employed in the production of Vatican coins. The dignified portrayal serves as a tribute to the Pope’s influential role during a pivotal time in Church history.
On the reverse side, the coin showcases the Vatican coat of arms, which includes the crossed keys of Saint Peter and the Papal Tiara. The design also prominently displays the denomination “2 LIRE” beneath the coat of arms. The inclusion of these elements signifies the coin's value while underscoring the Vatican’s ecclesiastical authority. The crossed keys and the Papal Tiara are traditional symbols of the Vatican’s sovereignty and spiritual leadership, and their incorporation into the coin’s design reinforces the connection between the currency and the Church’s heritage. The design is both symbolic and functional, capturing the essence of Vatican numismatic tradition.
The Vatican Mint, renowned for its precision and quality, was responsible for producing the 1962 2 Lire coin. Known for its meticulous attention to detail, the Mint ensured that each coin was struck with a high level of artistry and craftsmanship. The 1962 2 Lire coin was minted in relatively modest quantities, which contributes to its rarity and appeal among collectors. The selective mintage reflects the Vatican’s approach to issuing currency, aiming to balance both exclusivity and historical significance.
In terms of condition, the 1962 2 Lire coin is often found in Uncirculated (UNC) quality. Coins in UNC condition are characterized by their pristine appearance, with no signs of wear or handling. The original mint luster is fully preserved, showcasing the coin’s fine details and artistic elements. For the 1962 2 Lire coin, this means that the portrait of Pope John XXIII and the coat of arms design are presented in flawless condition. UNC coins are highly valued by collectors for their perfect state and the preservation of their historical and artistic features.
The Vatican City 2 Lire coin of 1962 stands as a significant collectible that provides insight into a transformative period in Vatican history. Its design, featuring a dignified depiction of Pope John XXIII and traditional papal symbols, captures the historical and ecclesiastical context of the early 1960s. The coin’s limited mintage, high-quality UNC condition, and symbolic design elements contribute to its desirability among collectors. As a piece of Vatican monetary history from a pivotal era, the 1962 2 Lire coin remains a valuable and cherished addition to any numismatic collection.