1973 Italy 5000 Lire – Christopher Columbus & the Age of Discovery

Pick# 102b | Printed by Officina della Banca d’Italia

Issued during Italy’s post-war economic expansion, the 1973 5000 Lire banknote celebrates Christopher Columbus, the Genoese navigator whose voyages reshaped global history. Printed by Officina della Banca d’Italia, this note reflects Italy’s pride in its maritime legacy and Renaissance-era exploration.

Part of the 1971–1977 series, this issue blends classical artistry with nautical symbolism. With its seahorse motif, Toscanelli’s 15th-century map, and Columbus’s fleet on the reverse, it offers collectors a richly detailed tribute to Italy’s role in the Age of Discovery.


Design Highlights

Obverse:
Portrait of Christopher Columbus at right
Mythical seahorse emerging from the sea at center
Background features a 15th-century map by Paolo dal Pozzo Toscanelli

Text: Banca d’Italia
Printed in blue, brown, and green tones

Reverse:
Three sailing ships representing Columbus’s fleet
Large anchor and interwoven dolphins symbolizing maritime strength

Text: Lire Cinquemila

Watermark:
Three-quarter portrait of Giovanni da Verrazzano


Specifications
Attribute Details
Country Italy
Year 1973
Denomination 5000 Lire
Issuer Banca d’Italia
Printer Officina della Banca d’Italia
Size 141 × 70 mm
Material Paper
Pick Number P# 102b
Watermark Giovanni da Verrazzano
Status Demonetized (1982)



Why Add This Note to Your Collection?

This 1973 Italy 5000 Lire note is ideal for:
Collectors of exploration and maritime-themed currency
Admirers of Renaissance cartography and historical voyages
Fans of Italian pre-Euro banknotes
Curators of Age of Discovery memorabilia

Whether you're building a collection around global navigation or celebrating Italy’s seafaring legacy, this note offers historical richness, artistic elegance, and cultural resonance.