Coin and Paper Money Collecting/Italian C20 1922 R coin

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Expert: - 10/12/2009


Question
In a box my Grandfather had, I found an Italian coin about the size of an American nickle.

Side one - Romanesque man's head, hand holding wheat(?), word "ITALIA"
Side two - C 20 1922 R, nude female (flying...?) over a shield with a cross.

What type of coin is it? Thank you for you help.


Answer
Hi Dale,
This is an Italian 20 centisimi coin, made of solid nickel. These are attractive coins that are quite popular with both Italian and worldwide collectors. An average circulated coin only sells for a dollar or two, but a nice coin with little wear easily jumps to $5-$10. Coins in mint condition are uncommon and typically sell in the $30-$50+ range.
If you need any more information feel free to ask a follow-up.
Thanks for the question! =)

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Dmitry Livshits

Expertise

My specialty is world coins from the 18th to 20th centuries, primarily non-US foreign coins and related areas such as errors and exonumia (tokens, medals, etc.). I can answer questions relating to identification, grading, selling, preservation and evaluation of such items. In addition to catalog value, I can give you the practical market value and trends for specific types of coins. I will also take questions regarding counterfeits (both modern and antique) and on how to identify them. I am NOT knowledgeable in paper money/banknotes, ancient or "shipwreck" coins. Thank you.

Experience

Collector of world coins since early childhood. Access to a variety of auction records and reference material. You can also find me on Facebook.

Education/Credentials
A.S. in Psychology (2006), B.A. in Forensic Psychology (2008), M.A. in Forensic Psychology (2011).

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