Papal State Coin - Silver Lira

History of the Artifact

Minted in the Papal States, territories in the Italian Peninsula under the direct sovereign rule of the pope from 756 until 1870, these genuine Silver Liras are a tangible link to the days of Papal power and might.

Here is your chance to hold in your hand the very same coins that circulated in the land where divine authority and worldly governance intertwined for centuries.

Now reduced to the Vatican City, the Pontifical States were once a realm of spiritual and temporal power, the Pontifical States held a significant place in history. Ruled by the Pope, this unique territory encompassed the Vatican City and various regions in central Italy. It was a place where the influence of the Catholic Church merged with political authority, shaping the course of nations. With grand cathedrals, artistic masterpieces, and a rich cultural heritage, the Pontifical States reflect a fascinating fusion of faith, governance, and historical intrigue.

Depicted on the reverse is Blessed Pope Pius IX (May 13, 1792 – February 7, 1878), born Giovanni Maria Mastai-Ferretti, who was Pope from June 16, 1846 until his death. His was the longest reign in Church history, lasting 32 years. During his pontificate, he convened the First Vatican Council in 1869, which decreed Papal infallibility. The Pope defined the dogma of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary, meaning that Mary was conceived without original sin and that she lived a life completely free of sin.

Whether you're a history buff, a collector, or simply intrigued by the grandeur of the Papal States and its captivating stories of kings, emperors, and Popes this coin is a must-have for your collection.

All artifacts sold on this page have been carefully examined for authenticity concluding that they are authentic and have been obtained from professional antiquarians who have also examined the artifacts and deemed them authentic.

How do I know these are original Papal State Coins?

Ancient Artifacts guarantees the Authenticity of items sold through a three layer system of protection: 

1. Ancient Artifacts exclusively sources artifacts from trusted and reputable antique distributors, many of whom have been selling Artifacts for decades.  
2. Next, the Artifact is inspected by an expert team member, who is professionally trained in counterfeit detection After the artifact passes inspection, the Certificate of Authenticity is signed and the Artifact is packaged. 
3. Finally, Ancient Artifacts gives an additional layer of protection by promising a full refund with no questions asked, in the extremely unlikely event that a counterfeit slips through our vetting process.

What will my artifact look like?

Your coin will look very similar to the one shown in the photos. There will always be some variety, given our items are unique historical pieces.  The display case included is openable so that you may easily handle and closely observe the artifact. If for whatever reason you get anything that does not fit this description you are entitled to your money back! 

Your order will include:

• One authentic Papal State coin depicting pope Pius IX
• Elegant protective case for preservation and display of your artifact 
• Certificate of Authenticity

Ancient Artifacts relics are guaranteed authentic and have a 100% money back policy. Read more about our Mission and Promise for authenticity.