Italy 1928-R 20 Lire

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Italy’s 1928-R 20 lire is one of the few large-size silver coins the nation released for general circulation during the reign of Victor Emmanuel III. His time on the throne spanned from 1900 to 1946 and encompassed both world wars. These coins have a diameter of 35.5mm (about 1.4 inches) and contain 0.386 ounces of silver.

Genuine examples in low Mint State can sell for hundreds of dollars, which creates an incentive for counterfeiters. Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC) recently received a purported example of this coin.

The problems with this counterfeit, which is struck mostly in copper, nickel, and zinc, begin with its rough, porous surfaces. Also note that the raised dots along the rim of the genuine coin are merely half circles on the fake’s obverse and are completely absent on its reverse.

Other problems are noticeable with the design as well. For example, the strokes of the date’s numerals are far too thin, and the woman’s robe and torso lack the finer details of the original. 

A genuine example of this classically themed coin combines the beauty of its design with the allure of precious metals to make it an impressive addition to a vintage world collection. Remember, NGC backs its determinations of authenticity and grade with the NGC Guarantee.

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A version of this article appears in the October 2025 issue of The Numismatist (money.org).