Old Italian coins have always aroused great interest among collectors and numismatic enthusiasts. Among the most sought-after are the 5 lire coin with the dolphin , a coin that has been part of Italian daily life for decades. But how much are they worth today? Let’s discover their value and the factors that influence it.
History and characteristics of the coin
The 5 lire coin featuring the dolphin was minted by the Italian Republic between 1951 and 2001. It was made of Italma , an aluminium-based alloy, and featured a simple yet iconic design:
- Obverse : Depicts a stylised dolphin, symbol of speed and agility, with the face value “5” at the top.
- Reverse : Shows a ship’s rudder and the inscription “Repubblica Italiana”.
- Diameter : 20.2 mm.
- Weight : 1 gram.
How much are the 5 lire with the dolphin worth today?
The value of the 5 lire coin with the dolphin depends on several factors, including the year of minting, its condition, and its rarity. Here’s an estimate of its current value:
1. Common coins (1951-2001)
The most common coins, minted in millions of copies, are worth between 1 and 5 euros if in good condition. If the coin is mint (perfect, with no signs of wear), the value can reach up to 15 euros .
2. Rare and high-value coins
Some vintages are particularly sought after by collectors:
5 lire 1956 : this is the rarest and most sought-after. If in excellent condition, it can be worth between 500 and 2,000 euros .
5 lire 1951 : the first edition, if well preserved, can be worth between 50 and 150 euros .
5 lire 1969 with minting errors : some variants with defects can exceed 100 euros .
3. Influence of the state of conservation
