Description:
Italian silver one lira, 1913
Diameter 21mm
The obverse features the bust of Vittorio Emanuele III facing right. To the left of the bust and within the central ring is the name 'D. Calandra M', possibly that of the designer or engraver. The inscription reads 'VITTORIO. EMANUELE. III. RE. D'ITALIA', 'Vittorio Emanuele III King of Italy'. The reverse features the 'fast quadriga', a four horsed chariot appearing to travel at speed. It is driven by a female figure carrying a shield in her left arm and an olive branch extended in her right hand, there is a sword hanging from her side. This is probably Victoria, the Roman Goddess of Victory, who is also depicted in a monument to Vittorio Emanuele II. The date is to the left and the denomination is at the base flanked by swirling patterns, to the left is the mintmark for Rome 'R' and to the right is written 'L. GIORGI INC' followed by a star.