A Masterpiece of Italian Artistry: The 1912 Vittorio Emanuele III "Aratrice" 50 Lire Gold Coin

Captivating collectors worldwide, Italian coinage is celebrated for its profound artistic heritage. We are proud to present one of Italy’s most iconic gold issues: the "Aratrice" (The Female Plowman). This 50 Lire gold coin is a stunning fusion of royal prestige and agricultural symbolism, standing as a premier example of early 20th-century numismatic art.

■ Design

• Obverse: Portrait of King Vittorio Emanuele III facing left. Inscription: VITTORIO EMANUELE III.

• Reverse: An allegorical depiction of the Goddess of Fertility (Aratrice), gracefully harvesting wheat—a symbol of the kingdom’s prosperity and abundance.

• Inscription: REGNO D'ITALIA LIRE 50 R 1912 with signatures of the engravers Egidio Boninsegna and Luigi Giorgi.

■ Coin Details

• Year of Issue: 1912

• Mint: Rome (R)

• Mintage: 11,230 pieces

• Denomination: 50 Lire

• Composition: Gold (.900 Fine)

• Weight: 16.12 g (Actual Gold Weight: approx. 14.5 g)

• Diameter: 28 mm

• Engraver: Egidio Boninsegna / Luigi Giorgi

• Certification: NGC MS62

■ Key Highlights

1. Rarity: A Survivor of the Golden Era With a limited mintage of only 11,230 pieces and a current NGC census of just 348 graded examples, the "Aratrice" is a genuine rarity. Unlike modern commemoratives, these coins were part of the national currency. Most specimens suffered from circulation or were melted down over the decades, making high-grade survivors like this one exceptionally difficult to find.

2. Condition: Ranked 8th in the NGC Census Graded MS62 (Mint State), this specimen ranks as the 8th finest in the NGC census. It retains its original mint luster and displays sharp, crisp details—from the intricate folds of the goddess's robes to the delicate stalks of wheat. For a coin struck over 110 years ago, its state of preservation is nothing short of breathtaking.

3. Market Potential: The "Rising Star" of European Gold King Vittorio Emanuele III was a world-renowned numismatist, and his passion for coins led to some of the most beautiful designs in history. While other European gold coins have seen dramatic price surges recently, Italian gold remains a relatively accessible yet rapidly growing segment. The "Aratrice" series, with its dedicated global following, provides a solid foundation for long-term value appreciation.

Investment & Collection Verdict

Italian coins are essentially "sculptures in miniature." The "Aratrice" is highly prized by aesthetic-driven collectors and serious investors alike for its rarity and elegance. As international attention turns toward the Italian market, specimens of this caliber are expected to become increasingly scarce.

Combining artistic brilliance with stable market demand, this MS62 Gold 50 Lire is a superb addition to any portfolio. Secure this "Goddess of Abundance" while it remains at an attainable price point.