Diana R. writes: We found a coin from 1867 that had what we believe to be a portrait of a pope on it. On the back it said, “Pontifico; 5 cents; 1 Soldo R”. On the front top it read, “IX Pont MAX ANN XXI”. Could you give us a clue to what this could be or where it is from?
You have a 1867 Vatican (Papal States) copper, 1 Soldo (5 cetesimi= 1 soldo). The obverse shows the bust of Pope Pius IX (1846-1878) facing left, the Latin legend PIUS. IX. PONT.MAX ANN.XXI (Pius the ninth, Pontifix Maximus (Pope) in the 21st year).
The reverse shows a beaded border with: 1 soldi R within and STATO PONIFICO 5 CENT. One Soldo, (R)ome Mint. Papal States 5 centesimi) around.
There is a large and small date variety. Value depends on condition. Range:$1 – $50 (uncirculated).
