Owner Comments:
1922R LIRA:
The obverse of this coin features the goddess Roma sitting on a plinth. In Roma’s left hand is an image of the goddess Nike standing on a small globe. In Romas right hand is an olive branch signifying peace. Interestingly, there are those who suggest that the identity of the seated image on the obverse of the 1922 lira is Italia. However, the presence of Nike the winged goddess of victory seems to imply that the image on the coins obverse is Roma.
To prove my point, the coin pictured as the reverse is an ancient coin featuring the goddess Roma holding Victory. On coinage featuring Roma, Roma is typically illustrated holding Victory. The use of Roma in 1922 rather than Italia then seems to suggest a victory reminiscent of the glory of the old Roman Empire.
Thus, the interpretation of this coin signifies Italy’s role in the allied victory during World War I. The irony of this is that though victorious, the war was devastating to Italy. This led to civil unrest and the March on Rome in 1922 resulting in the rise to power of fascist dictator Benito Mussolini as Italy’s prime minister. Coincidently or not, the first year of this coins issuance is 1922.
The reverse of this coin features the Savoy Arms of Victor Emmanuel III, King of Italy encircled within a wreath. The coins denomination to the right of the arms is translated, Good for 1 Lira.