Expert: Dmitry Livshits - 2/28/2010

Question
QUESTION: I have what seems to be a Vatican coin. On one side there is the coat of arms of Pope 'PIUS IX PONT MAX ANNO V' on the other side tere are the words '1 PATOCCO 1850' encircled with a leaf design. Can you please give some information, regarding rarety and value? Thanks for your help

ANSWER: Hi Anthony,
This is indeed a coin from the Vatican. At that time it was part of the Papal States, for which your 1 baiocco coin was issued.
This is not a particularly rare coin, especially not in used condition. the value on a decent example with wear ranges from $10 to $20. They are quite scarce in mint condition, and such a coin would be $50 to $75.
If you would like to post a follow-up question with a picture of the coin, I can give you more exact information on the condition and value.
Thanks for the question! =)

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hello Mr. Livshits,
         Although I am more than satisfied with your answer, Iam sending you, as you suggested an image of the coin in question. Thanks a lot for your expert answer to my question.
Regards
Anthony

Answer
Hi again Anthony,
The details on this coin are well preserved, but it appears to have spent some time in the ground or in water. The surfaces has mild corrosion, which would put it at the low end of the previously mentioned value range.
Thanks again! =)