The Use of Seated Imagery in Numismatics
Europe


Obverse
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Reverse
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Coin Details

  

Set Details
Coin Description: LIRA 1922R
Grade: NGC MS 64
Owner: coinsbygary
 
Set Category: Thematic & Topical Coins
Set Name: The Use of Seated Imagery in Numismatics
Slot Name: Europe
Research: See NGC's Census Report for this Coin

Owner's Description

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 Roma's right hand is an olive branch signifying peace. Interestingly, there are those who suggest that the seated image is Italia, however the presence of Nike, the winged goddess of victory gives this coin away in that Roma is typically illustrated holding Nike. To prove my point, the coin pictured as the reverse is an ancient coin featuring the goddess Roma. The use of Roma in 1922 rather than Italia seems to suggest a victory reminiscent of the glory of the old Roman Empire. The interpretation of this coin then is that it 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”.

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