S22-VAT-0362 Vatican City 5 lire VF 1953 KM51 Pope Pius XII

A charming aluminium circulation coin from Vatican City, issued during the pontificate of Pope Pius XII (Eugenio Pacelli, 1939–1958) — one of the most significant papacies of the 20th century.

Obverse: Right-facing bust of Pope Pius XII with the Latin legend PIVS·XII P·M·AN·XV (Pius XII, Pontifex Maximus, Year XV of his pontificate). Engraved by Pietro Giampaoli.

Reverse: Standing figure of Justice holding a sword and scales, with the inscription CITTA DEL VATICANO and IVSTITIA (Justice). Date 1953 and denomination L·5 flank the figure.

Specifications

• Country: Vatican City
• Denomination: 5 Lire
• Year: 1953
• Composition: Aluminium
• Weight: 1 g
• Diameter: 20.2 mm
• Edge: Plain
• Mintage: 1,500,000

Catalogue References

• KM#: 51
• Schön#: 51
• Numista N#: 3899

Grade

VF (Very Fine) — Light wear on the highest relief points. Major details, including the portrait of Pius XII and the figure of Justice, remain clear and well-defined. A lovely example of this classic Vatican type.

Source: Numista N#3899