-
Inventory:
1 In Stock
- Product ID: 43352
Checkout
The Vatican City 5 Lire coin of 1964, cataloged as KM#78.2, is an important piece of Vatican numismatic history that reflects a period of stability and continuity for the Vatican during the early 1960s. Issued under the papacy of Pope John XXIII, who served from 1958 to 1963, and continuing under his successor Pope Paul VI, this coin represents the Vatican's effort to maintain its unique identity and financial independence through its own currency. The year 1964 was a time of significant global and ecclesiastical change, and the Vatican's coinage from this period mirrors its ongoing traditions and historical context.
The obverse of the 1964 5 Lire coin features a striking portrait of Pope Paul VI, who became Pope following the death of Pope John XXIII in 1963. The portrait captures Pope Paul VI in profile, presenting a calm and dignified image that emphasizes his role as the leader of the Catholic Church. The inscription surrounding the portrait reads “PAULUS VI PONT. MAX.,” which stands for Pontifex Maximus, reflecting the Pope's full title. This design aligns with the Vatican's tradition of showcasing the reigning Pope on its currency, symbolizing the continuity and reverence for the papal office.
The reverse side of the coin is adorned with the papal coat of arms, prominently featuring the crossed keys of Saint Peter. These keys, central to the papal emblem, are encased within a shield, underscoring the traditional symbols of papal authority. Below the shield, the denomination “5 LIRE” is clearly inscribed, indicating the coin's value. This reverse design effectively combines practical monetary elements with significant religious symbolism, reflecting the Vatican’s practice of incorporating its spiritual heritage into its currency. The use of the papal coat of arms reinforces the connection between the Vatican’s spiritual and financial realms.
The 1964 5 Lire coin was minted by the Vatican Mint, an institution renowned for its precise craftsmanship and high production standards. The Vatican Mint was responsible for producing coins that adhered to both aesthetic and functional requirements, ensuring that each piece reflected the Vatican’s commitment to quality. The total mintage of the 1964 5 Lire coin was relatively modest, contributing to its appeal and rarity among collectors. The limited production underscores the Vatican's careful approach to currency issuance, preserving the exclusivity and significance of its coinage.
In terms of condition, the 1964 5 Lire coin is typically found in Uncirculated (UNC) quality. Coins in UNC condition are characterized by their pristine surfaces, with no signs of wear or handling. The original mint luster is fully preserved, showcasing the coin’s design details in their full clarity and precision. For the 1964 5 Lire, this means that both the portrait of Pope Paul VI and the detailed reverse design elements are presented in their most original and unblemished form. Collectors highly value UNC coins for their flawless appearance and the preservation of historical and artistic features.
The Vatican City 5 Lire coin of 1964 is a notable collectible that provides insight into a significant period in Vatican history. Its design, featuring a refined portrait of Pope Paul VI and traditional Catholic symbols, captures the era's historical and cultural context. The coin's limited mintage and high-quality UNC condition enhance its desirability among collectors. As a piece of Vatican monetary history from a time of ecclesiastical transition and global change, the 1964 5 Lire coin remains a treasured and valuable addition to any numismatic collection.