Rome, 27 August 2026 – The new coins in “The Reissue of the Lira” series of the 2026 Italian Republic Numismatic Collection pay tribute to the historic 50 Lire coin through two interpretations in €50 and €20 denominations, struck in 999.9‰ gold with a Reverse Proof finish. Combining iconic imagery with contemporary aesthetic research, these coins offer collectors a symbol deeply rooted in Italy’s history and identity.

The obverse reprises the allegorical figure of Italy, depicted as a female profile facing right and crowned with oak leaves, surrounded by the inscription “REPVBBLICA ITALIANA”. The reverse reinterprets the celebrated image of the god Vulcan, pairing the historic denomination “L. 50” with the current face value, “50 EURO” on the €50 coin and “20 EURO” on the €20 coin. This direct dialogue between past and present restores the full symbolic power of the original design.

The €50 and €20 “50 Lire” coins, part of “The Reissue of the Lira” series, were issued by the Ministry of Economy and Finance, designed by engraver Valerio De Seta, and minted by the Italian State Mint.

TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION

Obverse of the €50 coin:
Depiction of the obverse of the original 50 Lire coin, featuring Italy represented by a female profile facing right and crowned with oak leaves. Around the edge appears the inscription “REPVBBLICA ITALIANA”. At the bottom is the designer’s signature, “V. DE SETA”. A decorative beaded border surrounds the design.

Reverse of the €50 coin:
Depiction of the reverse of the original 50 Lire coin, with the figure of the god Vulcan at the center. On the right appear the former denomination “L. 50”, the “R” mintmark identifying the Rome Mint, and “2026”, the year of issue. On the left, at the top, is the current denomination “50 EURO”. A decorative beaded border surrounds the design.