Preliminary identification

Italian 10 Euro Cent Coin, 2002-Present

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

A standard circulation 10-cent Euro coin featuring the iconic 'Birth of Venus' by Sandro Botticelli on the national obverse side. This design represents Italy's profound contribution to the Renaissance and world art history.

Story

In 2002, Italy replaced the Lira with the Euro, choosing Botticelli's Venus to represent the nation's soul. This specific coin traveled through the hands of the Eurozone, carrying a masterpiece of the 1480s into modern pockets.

Maker / Origin

The Italian Mint (Zecca dello Stato) is one of the oldest in the world, tracing its lineage back to the Papal and Roman mints. Their modern engravers, like Claudia Momoni who adapted the Venus for this coin, are masters of translating monumental art into miniature relief.

Condition & Value

The coin shows significant circulation wear, surface scratches, and oxidation (toning) consistent with daily use. These signs of 'pocket life' mean it holds standard face value rather than numismatic collector value. Condition reduces potential premium by 95%.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Build on this identification

Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.

Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.