Sardinian 40 Lire
Italy
1826–1861
Reference data compiled from public catalogs
Estimated Melt Value
$1,790.61
Based on Gold spot price ($4,795.98/oz) · 90.0% purity · 12.903g
Updated 6:41 PM
Collector premium not included
Specifications
| Country | Italy |
| Years Minted | 1826–1861 |
| Composition | 0.900 gold |
| Weight | 12.903 g |
| Diameter | 28 mm |
| Shape | Round |
Design
Obverse
Portrait of the reigning monarch, such as Charles Albert or Victor Emmanuel II, facing right.
Reverse
Crowned shield of the House of Savoy with the denomination below.
History & Notable Facts
The Sardinian 40 Lire gold coin was one of the first in Italy to incorporate the decimal system, aligning it with broader European currencies and easing international trade.
This made it practical for merchants, though it didn't prevent the coin from being melted down during economic crises. Struck in Turin, the obverse typically featured the profile of King Charles Albert or Victor Emmanuel II, depending on the year, with the reverse showing the Savoy coat of arms encircled by a wreath.
Details vary; for instance, some issues have a more pronounced edge reeding, possibly to deter clipping. Mintage figures are spotty after the 1838 fire destroyed many records, so exact numbers remain a mystery.
As for rarity, early strikes from 1826 fetch a premium, but that's no surprise in this field. Collectors sometimes confuse it with French napoleons due to similar weights—history's way of playing tricks.
Buy on eBay
AI Analysis & Price Prediction
The Sardinian 40 Lire has shown consistent appreciation over the past decade. Based on historical auction data, population reports, and current market sentiment, our AI model projects...
Get AI-powered analysis for this coin
Unlock with Pro — $9.99/mo