• Obverse: Head of Minerva facing left, wearing a laurel wreath, with the inscription REPVBBLICA ITALIANA.

• Reverse: Goddess Minerva standing, holding a spear and reaching out to an olive tree (symbolizing peace and prosperity). Denomination L.100 and date 1976 below.

• Composition: Acmonital (stainless steel).

• Weight: 8 g.

• Diameter: 27.8 mm.

• Edge: Reeded.

• Mint: Rome.

Historical Insight:
The 100 lire was one of Italy’s most iconic coins, circulating widely from 1954 until the euro replaced the lira in 2002. The imagery of Minerva and the olive tree represented the dual values of wisdom and peace — fitting symbols for post-war Italy’s reconstruction and growth.

Collecting Note:
Although common, coins like this 1976 issue capture Italy’s cultural identity and the strength of the lira during the mid-20th century. Its durable stainless-steel composition ensured it remained a workhorse coin in daily life for decades.